Theses and Dissertations (School of Public Management and Administration (SPMA))

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Suitable supply chain strategies for the delivery of naturally fed beef from the Limpopo Province
(University of Pretoria, 2008-05) Hugo, Willem; Groenewald, Abraham
This goal of this research was to develop and evaluate a number of suitable supply chain strategies for the delivery of naturally fed beef from the Limpopo province in South Africa. The Limpopo province is the northernmost province of South Africa, and consists mainly of "savanna" grassland. It is traditionally known as a good cattle farming region. For the purposes of this research, "naturally fed" beef is defined as beef from cattle that: • Lived and grazed on natural pasture. • Have not gone through a feedlot process, where growth hormones and antibiotics are given to the animals to accelerate growth. • Has been processed in such a way, at all points of the supply chain, that it conforms with all the legal requirements of South Africa regarding beef. This research has determined that the markets for natural and organic beef in the USA have grown very rapidly over the past decade. It is accepted that the South African market typically lags behind the American market by about 10 to 15 years. Furthermore, a significant amount of beef consumers who took part in this research indicated that they are concerned about growth hormones given to cattle in feedlots. They are also concerned about animal welfare and would typically be willing to pay a premium for naturally fed beef. This indicates that a strong market for naturally fed beef could develop over the next decade in South Africa. Two types of naturally fed beef, "Type A" and "Type B" beef, have been conceptually developed. Type A beef is produced in the Waterberg region, with higher rainfall and more water resources, where pasture can be planted and irrigated. Type B beef is produced on farms in the drier Bushveld regions, on completely natural farmland and without any irrigation of pastures. The research determined that consumers are willing to pay premiums for these products. Specifically, it determined that a premium of 10% (based on the standard average carcass price for feedlot produced beef) could probably asked for type A beef, and a premium of 20% could be asked for type B beef. Process and cost information regarding the required elements of the supply chain for naturally fed beef, such as farming, abattoirs, logistics, processing and packing and retail channels were obtained. This information was used to perform numerical simulations on a number of different supply chain configurations. The influences of the following parameters were considered through the simulations: • Supply chain configuration (process close to market versus process close to source). • Market size. • Sales premium. • Input costs. • B2C versus B2B markets. • Type A versus Type B beef. The simulations indicated the following: • It is far more profitable to produce type A beef than it is to produce type B beef. This is due to the fact that farmland is extremely expensive and the grazing capacity in the drier regions of Limpopo is very low. • Through effective branding and advertising, natural beef should be positioned in such a way that both sales volumes as well as price can be increased, since the combination of these two factors has a very positive impact on profitability. • The supply chain configuration is not very significant in terms of influencing profits. • Profitability is reduced when opting for contract at a reduced price. However, as a lower risk, lower return option it could be considered, especially if the more profitable type A beef is sold. • For the base case simulation, the increase of operational costs by 10 % to 20 % has a significant impact on the supply chain, as it results in supply chain losses.
A co-production model for human settlements in South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Malan, Lianne; Mazenda, Adrino; katlegonk@gmail.com; Maila, Hlengiwe Precious
This study is a basic research study in the area of human settlements, with a specific focus on housing. The study argues that the current state-led and contractor-driven model of delivering housing is efficient, but not effective. The study further argues that from an input perspective and by design, the model for housing delivery and human settlements development must include the participation of beneficiaries. The study proposes the construct of co-production which has an inherent value of user involvement, to enhance public housing delivery outcomes in South Africa. This study explores co-production as a necessary alternative method of delivering public housing, because through co-production the government would be able to tap into the abundance of human assets. Kenya and Zimbabwe have been selected as examples of international best practice on co-producing housing with its citizens. Kenya and Zimbabwe have used co-production as a method of addressing the housing crisis which emanated from informality. This study seeks to fill a gap that exists in literature by getting the perspective of public service officials, in particular the members of the Human Settlements Technical MinMEC led by the Director-General for Human Settlements in South Africa, and the community representatives including Non-Governmental Organisations, Civil Society Organisations and grassroots movements on the co-production concept. Engagement with the selected population sample seeks to analyse the attitude of public service officials about the concept of co-production, explore the willingness of citizens to co-produce housing, and to recommend a model for co-production of human settlements in South Africa. The study uses Grounded Theory as an inductive, bottom-up qualitative research design to generate a human settlements co-production model from empirical evidence. The data collection method for this study was interviews. Data was analysed using a thematic analysis process on ATLAS.ti.
Migration management in Nigeria : a case study of Edo State
(University of Pretoria, 2023-08-01) Tshiyoyo, Mudikolele Michel; Mangai, Mary; Otele, Oscar Meywa; u20691735@tuks.co.za; Yusuf, David Oluwasegun
Nigerian, African, and global migration have received political and foreign policy attention in recent years, with follow-up actions by global and continental frameworks. The United Nations Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, the 2015 European Union (EU) border hotspot externalisation regime and the African Union (AU) Migration Policy and Development Framework 2006 are few examples of such frameworks. However, Nigerian migrants are on the receiving end of migration policies, which restrict movement and are focused on intensive securitisation and protectionism rather than managing migration. The study used Edo State in Nigeria, a major migration hotspot as a case study that involved in-depth interviews and multiple focus group discussions to arrive at its findings. Using a thematic analysis approach and ATLAS.ti 9 social statistical software for analysis and interpretation, five themes were developed to include a fair, orderly, predictable and explicable migration management framework for Nigerian migrants. The themes highlight international collaborations, synergy, international networks, strategic alliances and linkages; financial management and reporting; global best practices in migration management, legal frontiers of migration, robust migration policy formulation, implementation and post-implementation. The research contributes to beneficial migration science by designing a long-term composite framework which incorporates a mixture of regulating, enhancing, or controlling migration. The theoretical frameworks include the theory of social network, the theory of basic human needs, state fragility theory and the functional theory of human value and social equity. The research concludes by making policy recommendations to migration authorities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), scholars and technocrats along with potential and returnee migrants on the importance of soft communication and networking skills, policy implementation coherence and matching, information management and ethics, training and re-training, and continuous monitoring of the migration policy and implementation process.
The analysis of the implementation of the AgriSETA’s Internship Programme by the Department of Higher Education and Training
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Malan, L.P. (Lianne Priscilla); sammehlala83@gmail.com; Mehlala, Samkelo
Programme implementation must be driven by clear implementation plans or project plans that have measurable deliverables, milestones and financial resources. Programme implementation and policy formulation are meant to work together and complement each other for the attainment of policy objectives. In essence, public policy should be underpinned by practice and practical programme implementation as opposed to the emphasis that is often placed more on the theory of policy formulation. The practice of policy implementation should be preoccupied with and entail what activities need to be executed by implementers at the policy implementation phase in order to achieve the performance and outcomes set out in policy objectives. The effectiveness of a policy could be determined by the ability of the implementers to put into practice the expected outcomes indicated in the policy, despite various challenges in the policy implementation process. The study assessed the policy and legislative framework that guides the implementation of the Skills Delivery Programme (SDP). A policy implementation framework has been applied to the AgriSETA Internship Programme to assess and analyse how the programme is doing. The Mazmanian and Sabatier framework, with its six categories of variables, the 7-C protocols of implementation as well as a set of seven questions were adopted to analyse the implementation of AgriSETA’s Internship Programme. The theoretical programme implementation framework presented in this research has provided an analysis that has revealed the strengths and shortcomings of AgriSETA’s policy formulation and policy implementation process. The analysis has provided AgriSETA with findings and recommendations that need to be considered by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and AgriSETA in order to improve the implementation of their internship programme.
Social protection policy responses to poverty in Nigeria
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Mazenda, Adrino; Lubinga, Stellah; cs.amaechi@tuks.co.za; Amaechi, Chioma
Although the Nigerian government has implemented various social protection responses and constitutional safeguards, poverty still affects over 50% of the population, with the northern region being the most affected due to internal migration rates from displaced region and insurgency, including Boko Haram operations that have destroyed infrastructure, caused homelessness, and increased poverty. This study aimed to examine Nigeria's social protection policy responses to poverty. The study used a mixed methods research approach with a representative sample of 204 participants from households in the Bwari, Gwagwalada, and Kuje area councils of Abuja and semi-structured interviews with 15 federal-state policy actors and administrators in social protection. The parallel convergent mixed methods design used a multinomial logistic regression and thematic analysis to examine the effectiveness of social protection policy responses in reducing poverty in Nigeria. A synthesis of both results revealed a lack of access and awareness of the social protection policy in the country, low effective coverage, gender inequality in social protection design, a lack of government commitment, a lack of coordination and planning, and inadequate monitoring and evaluation of roadblocks affecting the social protection policy responses to reduce poverty in Nigeria. The research findings, both quantitative and qualitative, recommend several actions, including the need for spatial analysis of poverty level, gender mainstreaming, creating empowerment opportunities for graduates, targeting beneficiaries with a comprehensive database, prioritising informal social protection policy responses, and adopting effective public management techniques by social protection policy actors and administrators.
The delivery of low-cost housing in the Hillside view integrated development project in the Free State
(University of Pretoria, 2023-03) Masiya, Tyanai; nozipho.molikoe@gmail.com; Molikoe, Nozipho Belina
The purpose of the study was to analyse the delivery of low-cost housing by the Free State Department of Human Settlements using the Hillside View Integrated Development as a case study. The study identified factors which affected the provision of low-cost housing in Hillside View Integrated Development. The study further sought to highlight to the Free State Department of Human Settlements the factors and challenges related to the implementation process which impeded the achievement of the agreed upon targets. The study adopted the case study design which investigated the delivery of low-cost housing in the Hillside View Integrated Development in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality. To collect data, semi-structured interviews were carried out from various participants, for example, policy implementers (senior government officials), housing beneficiaries, a developer, and the estate agent. Furthermore, secondary data was utilised to confirm the targets achieved by the Department of Human Settlements for the 2014-2019 MTSF period. The study revealed that although the post-apartheid state had planned to deliver low-cost housing opportunities since 1994 for South Africans, the housing backlog has continued to outpace delivery. Furthermore, based on the gathered data, this study revealed that the delivery of low-cost housing in the Free State Department of Human Settlements has been marred by multiple challenges. The Free State Department of Human Settlements (hereinafter, the FSDHS) did not achieve the 2014-2019 Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) targets based on the following key performance areas; Construction of top structures (Braking New Ground (BNG) houses, Military Veterans, Finance-Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP), Land Restitution Programme (LRP) and Individual subsidies); Installation of serviced sites (sewer, water connections infrastructure) and the delivery of title deeds. On a positive note, the FSDHS met the following 2014-2019 MTSF targets; procurement of land suitable for human settlements and the development of community residential units. The extensive reviewed literature also revealed that the delivery of low-cost housing by government remains an evasive target due to, amongst other things, the high rate of unemployment, ever increasing demand for urbanisation and inward migration, population growth, and the right to decent housing as enshrined in the Constitution.
Determining the knowledge and experience of the performance management and development system amongst nurses at the district hospital in Tshwane
(University of Pretoria, 2022) Nhede, Norman; Buch, Eric; shoba.govender@up.ac.za; Govender, Shobana
The Performance Management and Development System was introduced by the South African government as a tool for monitoring and managing public sector performance, including healthcare. In order to implement it correctly, implementers must possess the necessary skills and knowledge. Studies have shown that nurses in several public health clinics lack knowledge and experience of the Performance Management and Development System. However, there have been little or no research studies found at district hospitals. Therefore, this study focuses on determining the knowledge and experience of the Performance Management and Development System amongst registered nurses at a district hospital in Tshwane. The research was carried out in a natural setting, namely the health institution where Performance Management and Development System activities were taking place. The study employed a quantitative and descriptive design and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using the Statistical software for data science. The study found that participants had limited knowledge with regard to training and the processes of the system, and their experiences revealed that supervisor feedback was inadequate and nurses felt demotivated by the system. Drawn from the findings, the study recommends that convenience-based educational strategies should be implemented to enhance nurses' knowledge of Performance Management and Development System training and processes. Furthermore, feedback should be provided promptly to allow changes to be implemented in a timely manner. Different motivational theories can be explored and used to motivate the employees at the district hospital. On the basis of the study's findings, recommendations have been made to improve the knowledge of the Performance Management and Development System through convenient training of the system and its process. Additionally, increased supervisor feedback and workplace motivation were recommended to improve nurses' experiences with the system.
Informal sector contribution to sustainable livelihoods in Khayelitsha, Cape Town
(University of Pretoria, 2022) Masiya, Tyanai; sthwala@me.com; Thwala, Sinhle Vincent
The aim of the research was to investigate the contribution of the informal sector to sustainable livelihoods using the case study of Khayelitsha township, in Cape Town. The study further examined factors affecting informal sector livelihoods in Khayelitsha in order to analyse policy gaps that impede the rationalisation of the informal sector. It also provides recommendations for improving the contribution of the informal sector to sustainable livelihoods. This research study was conducted using the case study of Mandela Park in Khayelitsha township, Cape Town. A qualitative research design was employed in the study. Structured interviews were used for data collection. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. Extant research states that the informal sector is commonly considered as a livelihood strategy because it offers manageable resources to fulfil basic needs (Susanto & Sudrajat, 2017). This study revealed that informal sector participants (street hawkers and small shop owners), use the income generated to support their respective families. Some have adopted the survivalist approach whereas others have aspirations for business growth and sustainability. The investigation reveals that inadequate responsive strategies, and an absence of policy support for the sector by the government affect business expansion and sustainability. A common sentiment among the informal sector participants was that the government is more interested in curtailing their business activities than in providing support. Overall, the research work revealed the need for South African policymakers to pay more attention to the informal sector in an effort to alleviate poverty and foster sustainable livelihoods. The informal sector must be an essential policy focus point in light of the fact that the sector was included in the South African national blueprint, the National Development Plan, where it is regarded as a critical component of economic development. In general, and in light of the increasing rate of unemployment in South Africa, policymakers need to rethink their attitude towards the informal economy and provide alternative interventions that can contribute towards poverty alleviation and employment creation. It is envisaged that the findings and recommendations of this study will contribute to the body of knowledge on the informal sector in South Africa. Further to this, the study will assist policymakers to identify constraints that are an impediment to informal sector policy support and implementation
Analysing the effectiveness of the rehabilitation and reintegration programmes at the Kgosi Mampuru II correctional facility
(University of Pretoria, 2022) Van Dijk, Gerda; siphesihlemagoso@gmail.com; Magoso, Makabongwe Siphesihle
A high recidivism rate has called for the evaluation of rehabilitation and reintegration programmes offered in correctional centres. The study analyses the effectiveness of offender rehabilitation and reintegration programmes and the perceived impact that the programmes have on the lives of offenders. A qualitative methodology was employed in the context of a qualitative research design, using semi-structured questionnaires with offenders and semi-structured interviews with correctional officials participating in rehabilitation and reintegration programmes. The data was analysed using thematic analysis which is an independent and reliable approach to qualitative analysis. The findings suggest that rehabilitation and reintegration programmes are not provided in adherence to the principles of effective rehabilitation and reintegration programmes, consequently making them ineffective. The study therefore recommends that Department of Correctional Services provide officials with training that is multi-dimensional in order to ensure accurate assessment, allocation and treatment of offenders during incarceration.
Local economic development strategies for employment creation in Amajuba District Municipality
(University of Pretoria, 2022) Masiya, Tyanai; mavusotasha@gmail.com; Mavuso Ndlovu, Nozibusiso
South Africa has a rapidly increasing unemployment rate which has been identified as a national crisis that urgently needs to be addressed. Unemployment is seen as a structural constraint that leads to significant issues of poverty and inequality which results in the deterioration of the quality of life of people. Given this, the South African government has placed a heavy emphasis on local economic development (LED) as a tool for employment creation and poverty alleviation. LED is understood as local initiatives that are driven by local stakeholders with local government in the forefront of driving local economic activity and employment creation within local economies. This study assessed the available LED strategies and/or tools available for employment creation using the Amajuba District Municipality as a case study. Employment creation has been specifically identified as the primary tool through which transformation can occur within the Amajuba District Municipality. This study employed a qualitative research approach in which semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 10 key participants within the Amajuba District. On this score, the study found that the Amajuba District is focusing on developing and promoting the agricultural sector, mining sector and textile sector as a LED strategy to create employment. In addition, the Amajuba District is also focused on the creation and facilitation of a conducive business environment as a LED strategy for employment creation. The findings suggest that there is room for improvement in regard to LED implementation and employment creation as the Amajuba District suffers from relatively high levels of poverty and unemployment. Given this, the study recommends that the Amajuba District Municipality should work on improving its collaborative efforts with the private sector, civil society and other relevant stakeholders. In addition, the Amajuba District should work on the promotion of a culture of entrepreneurship within the district. This can be in the form of supporting small, medium and macro enterprises (SMMEs), local farmers and aiding in the formalisation of the informal sector which could lead to better employment creation in the Amajuba District.
Analysing the influence of the monitoring and evaluation framework on service delivery within the Department of Home Affairs
(University of Pretoria, 2021-11) Masiya, Tyanai; lettie.masilo@dha.gov.za; Masilo, Mmacheneke Lettie
The unprecedented economic, political, social and technological challenges around the world is forcing governments to think differently and adopt new approaches and reforms to enhance the performance of the public service. The performance of the South African public sector has been hindered by a number of challenges over the last two decades. In response to these challenges the government introduced a Government-Wide Monitoring and Evaluation Framework which provided guidelines on how Departments should carry out Monitoring and Evaluation functions. The introduction of the Policy Framework for the GWM&E System is part of the public service reform and the approach towards increasing the Government’s effectiveness, by putting more emphasis on M&E. This research analyses the influence of the M&E Framework on service delivery within the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa. The study utilised a qualitative research approach, comprising interviews and documentary evidence. The study found that the M&E framework is a critical tool that brings performance processes together for the enhancement of service delivery. The article concluded that implementation of the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework by the Public Sector should be geared towards improvements of service delivery, for the benefit of citizens. As a result, it recommended that government departments such as the Department of Home Affairs should strengthen the support services within the Monitoring and Evaluation teams and also expand the structure to all levels within their departments. Advocacy and Communication Plans should be in place and should be used as tools to overcome misconceptions or lack of information about M&E; Plans should also be put in place to monitor utilisation of performance information as this is key in ensuring evidence-based development of policies, planning and decision making.
Assessment of factors influencing the adoption of public private partnerships in water infrastructure projects in selected municipalities
(University of Pretoria, 2022) Fourie, D.J. (David Johannes); Madumo, Onkgopotse Senatla; mandiriza@gmail.com; Mandiriza, Thulani
In this thesis titled “Assessment of factors influencing the adoption of public private partnerships in water infrastructure projects in selected municipalities” the study explores what influences the pace of adoption of municipal public private partnerships (PPPs) in water infrastructure projects. The study (i) determines whether the municipal PPPs regulatory framework in South Africa compares to international best practice and (ii) assess the factors influencing the adoption of PPPs in water infrastructure in selected municipalities in the Gauteng Province. A qualitative research method through the use of case studies anchored the study. The study identifies cumbersome regulatory environment, political dynamics, complexity of PPPs, influences of labour unions among others as contributing to the slow adoption of municipal PPPs. The study contributes towards knowledge and practice by proposing a regulatory framework to improve the municipal PPP approval process.
Die finansiering van die Suid-Afrikaanse goudmynbedryf
(University of Pretoria, 1959) Stals, Christian Lodewyk
Die ondersoek het bewys dat die kapitaalstruktuur van die Suid-Afrikaanse goudmynbedryf in bre~ trekke wel aan teoretiese finansieringsbeginsels en -vereistes voldoen. Daar skyn egter regverdigiging voor te wees om van meer leningskapitaal in die finansiering van goudmyne gebruik te maak. In hierdie verband wil dit voorkom of obligasies 'n belangriker rol behoort te speel terwyl daar minder op eie middele staatgemaak moet word vir die ontwikkeling van jong myne. Die terughou van winste moet op 'n later stadium gebruik word om obligasies af te los en sodoende die leningskapitaal met eie kapitaal te vervang. Die besondere aard van gouddraende ertsriwwe in Suid-Afrika en die unieke rol wat deur die mynhuise in die Unie gespeel word, veroorsaak dat die werklike risiko verbonde aan die goudmynbou alhier gering is. Daarby maak toegewings in die belastingstelsel van toepassing op goudmyne dit moontlik vir hierdie ondernemings om groot bedrae gedurende die beginjare van produksie uit winste vir die terugbetaling van lenings aan te wend.
Developing a complexity leadership competency framework for the Governance and Administration Cluster of the South African Public Service
(University of Pretoria, 2021-07-30) Van Dijk, Hilligje Gerritdina; Tshiyoyo, Mudikolele Michel; Kholofelododo@gmail.com; Sedibe, Kholofelo Glorious
P(p)ublic A(a)dministration is influenced by multiple factors, inclusive of complex policy issues, multi-faceted forms of accountability and hybrid governance models. Consequently, public administration organisations must strengthen their adaptive and complexity capacity to deal with environmental complexity through adopting a different leadership model that is characterised by distinct but complementary leadership functions. Complexity leadership theory (CLT) is thus adopted as an appropriate theoretical lens for the study due to its integrative, collective and relational approach to leadership, in spite of its limited application in the public administration context. Against this background, the purpose of the study is to apply CLT as the basis to determine the required leadership competencies that should underpin a complex adaptive system such as the Governance and Administration (G&A) Cluster of the South African government because of concerns regarding the unevenness or lack of appropriate leadership competencies, behaviours and skills to make the government cluster system effective. To address the purpose of the study and the underlying research problem, a mixed methods research approach was adopted to investigate the leadership competency implications of Public Administration reforms plus their links with intergovernmental relations developments, and the implications of the transition from leader-centric practices to collective and hybrid forms of leadership. An analysis of existing literature in these areas leads to the conclusion that the G&A Cluster, which is an intergovernmental relations structure, is an integral part of hybrid organisational arrangements whose effectiveness requires a different approach to leadership. The literature analysis further identifies a disjuncture between leader-centric practices and conceptions of leadership as a collective, collaborative and hybrid phenomenon. The disjuncture is attributed to the scarcity of leadership and competency-based management (CBM) literature to guide the development of complexity leadership practice, especially in inter-organisational arrangements, and reliance on theoretical analysis as the basis to propose competencies for complexity leadership. Thus, the study addresses the research question and simultaneously contributes towards knowledge and practice by providing an empirical lens to the dynamics of collective leadership in a government inter-organisational structure and advancing CBM through articulating seven adaptable principles and six competency clusters that inform the development of a meso level leadership competency framework for inter-organisational arrangements. The study is also contributing to the application of CLT in P(p)ublic A(a)dministration and improved understanding of CLT’s leadership functions by clarifying its competency dimensions. The study concludes with an outline of implications and recommendations for inter-organisational leadership competency development and practice as well as recommendations for further research.
An analysis of the performance management system of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
(University of Pretoria, 2020) Van Dijk, Hilligje Gerritdina; u13250958@tuks.co.za; Seabi, Mpho Shadikana Felicity
The study examines the implementation of the performance management system by the City of Tshwane (CoT) Metropolitan Municipality using a qualitative content analysis of strategic documents published during the period 2014-2019. Municipalities have been mandated to provide access to basic services and the satisfaction of citizens have been used as yardstick to measure success. Yet, through public sector reforms brought on by New Public Management, the obligation to implement performance management systems have become mandatory. Using themes derived from the theoretical foundations guiding good governance and performance management, the study investigates the CoT’s implementation of their performance management system known as its Balance Scorecard to determine the performance management challenges. The study found deficiencies related to performance planning and budgeting, the lack of complete and accurate performance reporting as well as the lack of alignments between strategic and operational performance activities to be the most obvious challenges in ensuring appropriate performance management. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing recommendations that the Municipality can incorporate in terms of its strategic planning activities and documents to improve its service delivery function through the effective use and implementation of its performance management system.
An exploration of an ethogenic whistle-blowing organisational culture in the South African public sector
(University of Pretoria, 2020-11-30) Holtzhausen, Natasja; rpcmusiyarira@gmail.com; Musiyarira, Ruvimbo Chantelle Paidamwoyo
Corruption has a destructive impact on the achievement of good governance and this has become evident in the governance of South Africa. South Africa has a systemically corrupt public sector, making it one of the most corrupt countries on the continent. Having an understanding of the principles guiding public administration in the Constitution juxtaposed with the extent of corruption in the South African public service, it is apparent that whistle-blowing is a necessary tool in the eradication of corruption as a fundamental anti-corruption mechanism. However, due to the expanse of unethical behaviour in the public sector organisational culture, whistle-blowing is stigmatised and negatively perceived by public servants. When a wrongdoing is committed, retribution is faced by the whistle-blower and not the perpetrator. Whistleblowing is thus not institutionalised into the South African public sector despite the existence of legislation supporting and promoting whistle-blowing. This characterises the sector as one with a whistlegenic organisational culture. Given the context in which reporting wrongdoing exists, this study sought to explore the institutionalisation of whistle-blowing in the South African public sector. The primary objective of the study was to determine the current state of whistle-blowing, the challenges thereof, focusing primarily on the Gauteng provincial departments as the area informing the study. The study also aimed to investigate how an ethogenic organisational culture, in which whistle-blowing is embedded in the culture, can be achieved in the public service of South Africa. The study employed the qualitative research approach. E-mail interviews were conducted with the Integrity Management Unit of the Gauteng Province in addition to a focus group interview conducted with the ethics officers of the Gauteng provincial departments. The onus of promoting ethical behaviour and thereby the anti-corruption measures provincial departments lies on the selected participants making them suitable to inform the research. The study employed a thematic analysis to analyse the collated findings. The study found that there are numerous challenges faced within the public sector that deter employees from whistle-blowing, in addition to the fear of retaliation. Ultimately, these challenges are a consequence of a systemically corrupt organisational culture and weaknesses in leadership. Subsequently, the study provided feasible recommendations which may be applied in the public sector to achieve an ethogenic organisational culture.
An exploration of leadership identity and intersectionality through selected life stories of Black women in the South African Public Service
(University of Pretoria, 2020) Van Dijk, Gerda; Nkwana, Hunadi Mapula; tinaroos553@gmail.com; Roos, Tina
Using the life stories of Black women employed by the Department of Employment and Labour, the study explores leadership identity and role congruity through the lenses of intersectionality and post-colonial feminism. Demographically, Black women constitute the majority of women within the senior management service and as such may have the biggest influence on a gendered leadership identity for the Public Service. However, the study investigates how women’s life stories influence the meaning they attach to their gender, race and ethnicity as contributing to their leadership identity and role congruity. Despite the steady progress made in terms of equity representation there is no understanding of how and if Black women in the Department have adapted their leadership identity, what challenges they have experienced and how these challenges could lead to a more gendered leadership understanding. There is a need to explore how the experiences of pre-1994, patriarchy and the triple intersectionality of gender, race and ethnicity affected Black women in senior positions in becoming the leaders that they are, and how those experiences manifest in their leadership interactions. Coupled with understanding the Department’s leadership culture and the expectation placed on women leaders, is the necessity to determine whether it is congruent with the leadership identity of Black women. The tightrope between agency and communion in the workplace is analysed in light of the notion that when women behave outside the gender roles, they are perceived in a negative manner and can suffer prejudice. Thus, the study aims to explore the influence of these variables on the leadership identity of Black women in a comprehensive manner.
Assessing the impact of the Municipal Financial Minimum Competency Programme on expenditure management
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Tshiyoyo, Mudikolele Michel; u14387779@tuks.co.za; Vilane, Nomcebo Serrah
Municipal expenditure management is critical for leveraging the overall effective performance of the Department of Local Government. This research assessed the impact of the municipal financial minimum competency programme on expenditure managementin five local municipalities in the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality (Bojanala Platinum). These five local municipalities are: Moretele, Madibeng, Moses Kotane, Kgetlengrivier and Rustenburg. The study, which was based on the quantitative research approach, was conducted by using the prescribed financial ratios of the National Treasury (2014) to assess the impact of the municipal financial minimum competency programme on expenditure management in the five local municipalities in Bojanala Platinum. The research findings demonstrated some of the local municipalities striving to bring the ratios for their capital expenditure to total expenditure within the prescribed National Treasury’s (2014:1) norm of 10%–20%. Such quests were found to be accompanied by initiatives to control the ratios on the capital expenditure budget implementation indicator, as well as the operating expenditure budget implementation indicator within the National Treasury’s (2014:1) norm of 95%–100%. Findings further indicated significant efforts being made by some of the local municipalities to manage their current ratios. However, despite these improvements, it became evident that, even after the implementation of the municipal minimum competency programmes, most of the local municipalities are still grappling with the challenge of managing irregular, fruitless, wasteful and unauthorised expenditures. Higher rates of irregular, fruitless, wasteful and unauthorised expenditures were found to be exacerbated by poor budget implementation, resulting in either overspending or underspending. This view was echoed by signs of improvement in local municipalities, such as the Rustenburg Local Municipality, not being easily discernible – even after the implementation of the municipal minimum competency programmes. Incidents of over or underspending were still fully prevalent. Combined with the increasing difficulties of managing and maintaining the appropriate liquidity position, these situations affected the efficiency of municipal expenditure management and budget implementation. The analysis of the Auditor-General’s reports of the financial years 2007/2008, 2013/2014, 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 for all the local municipalities in Bojanala Platinum District attributed to some of the causes of the challenges in deficient internal control systems, inaccuracy of budgeting, poor governance, lack of leadership, oversight, poor working capital management and poor records management. These internal conditions have obviously affected the extent to which the implementation of the municipal minimum competency requirements in the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality has impacted on the improvement of the municipal expenditure management. To discern new strategies through which the implementation of the municipal minimum competency requirements in the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality can be improved, it is argued that the North West Provincial Treasury should consider developing effective internal control systems, as well as a centralised Bojanala Platinum District Municipality procurement system. These systems should be accompanied by the enforcement of the principles of good governance, so as to curtail corruption and unethical practices. Furthermore, the North West Provincial Treasury should emphasise the need for the municipal officials’ working capital management skills and competencies for upholding financial ethics, training and development. These skills sets should be accompanied by the development of the skills and competencies critical for edifying effective budget development and implementation. Future research can opt to explore the constraints involved in the implementation of the municipal minimum competency programmes.
An analysis of the mutual acceptance of conformity assessment results within the context of the African tripartite free trade area
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Chitiga-Mabugu, Margaret; Tshiyoyo, Mudikolele Michel; ronj@mweb.co.za; Josias, Ronald
This thesis intended to review the policy enactment and implementation for the mutual acceptance of conformity assessment results (MACAR) within the context of the African Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA). Contextualised within the ambit of a regional economic arrangement, the MACAR has received renewed attention in recent years due to its impact on the economic welfare objective of trading economies. Three of the existing African regional economic arrangements, namely the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) launched the TFTA in 2015. Regional economic integration initiatives such as the TFTA hold much promise for the creation of economic welfare for participating member states. However, without a harmonised approach to the enactment and implementation of the MACAR, the TFTA’s ability to achieve its economic welfare gain objective is at risk. Building on existing work on Africa’s regional integration initiatives and the African policy environment, the study asks: How can the TFTA MACAR enactment and implementation framework be harmonised to facilitate the acceptance of conformity assessment results amongst the TFTA Member States, in order to facilitating the free flow of goods and services? A qualitative methodology approach, comprising a review of the literature and information gathered from semi-structured interviews and case studies was employed. Grounded within the domain of Public Administration, specifically in International Public Administration and International Economics, the analysis of the data revealed that the challenge of facilitating the acceptance of conformity assessment results should be addressed at the international, regional and national levels, as it relates to the policy environment. Based on the study, six findings and associated recommendations evolved. The study found that the critical components of a TFTA MACAR enactment in implementation framework are: i) compliance with the World Trade Organisation’s Technical Barriers to Trade Agreement requirements; ii) inclusiveness; iii) communication; iv) human resource and infrastructure development; and v) monitoring, control and sanctions. On this basis, and to support and strengthen the effectiveness of the study’s outcome, it is recommended that the TFTA: i) clarify the TFTA trade strategy; ii) clarify the conformity assessment procedure strategy; iii) address the loss of income from the liberalisation of tariff barriers and technical barriers; iv) Speed up the process of harmonisation of CAP; v) establish stakeholder and policy role-players’ participation structures; and vi) Establish communication hubs. Further research is needed to find ways to strengthen the effectiveness of the proposed MACAR enactment and implementation framework.
Mechanisms for effective implementation of South Africa's National Minimum Wage
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Chitiga-Mabugu, Margaret; Raga, Kishore; u13405706@tuks.co.za; Shipalane, Acquila
South Africa’s 1994 transition to democracy is considered as one of the most notable political feats of the twenty-first century. However, the majority of the South African population still live in vast poverty and inequality. South Africa’s poverty headcount is measured at 56.8% based on a poverty line of $1.9 per day at purchasing power parity (PPP) while, based on the Gini coefficient, the country is calculated as the most unequal country in the world. Although socioeconomic policies such as the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP), Growth, Employment and Redistribution and the Accelerated and Shared Growth-South Africa (AsgiSA) have attempted to address the issues of poverty and inequality, the two issues remain a great concern. The National Minimum Wage Bill aims to reduce poverty and inequality by implementing a national minimum wage of R20 p/h. The implementation of the national minimum wage (NMW) has been met with opposing views from different parties such as the University of Cape Town’s Development Policy Research Unit. Others such as the National Minimum Wage Research Initiative (NMWRI) at the University of the Witwatersrand argue that the national minimum wage level of R20 p/h is not feasible and estimated that it will result in job losses of approximately 281 000 people. Other parties have used various models such as the United Nations’ Global Policy Model (GPM) and the Dynamically Integrated Macro-Micro Economic Simulation Model (DIMMSIM) developed by Applied Development Research Solutions (ADRS) to argue that South Africa, as a wage-led country, would benefit greatly from such a wage level. The latter models argue that although the NMW will not eliminate poverty and inequality on its own, it can be used as a policy tool to reduce the two issues. This study identifies the mechanisms, or lack thereof, to implement an NMW in South Africa. The study also examines the effectiveness of the identified mechanisms. A qualitative research approach was adopted towards the achievement of the objectives of the study. The case study method was utilised accordingly. The case study countries are Germany, Namibia and the United Kingdom. The use of the case study method was aimed at comparing and contrasting the possible implementation of South Africa’s NMW to that of the international community in order to draw possible lessons for the South African case. The findings reveal that the National Minimum Wage Bill needs to improve the mechanisms before implementation is effective. For example, the role of labour inspectors could be improved by increasing their number in South Africa as well as equipping them with adequate skills and training. The study provides recommendations relating to the interpretation of the findings, which amongst others, proposes that independent contractors be included in the definition of the term “worker” so that this group is included in the minimum wage bracket.

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