Political Science & Public Administration

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Analysis of Local Economic Development Initiatives towards poverty mitigation within Big 5 Hlabisa local municipality: perspective of youth and municipal official
(University of Zululand, 2021) Xaba, Mzwandile R
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) were considered in advancing the LED initiatives. The national order set an obligation on the local government circle to promote economic movement from a grassroots level and expand formative economic activities. The LED initiatives were planned to magnify economic development, share the alleviation objectives, and incorporate previously excluded groups in social and economic life. Section 152 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) outlines the primary objectives of the local government (municipalities); Subsection (1) stipulates that (a) municipalities have to provide a democratic and accountable government for local communities; (b) ensure to provide services to local communities sustainably; (c) promote social and economic development. This study focused on youth community members’ perceptions of LED in the Mpembeni and Bazaneni local areas. The sample also included municipal officials within the Big 5 Hlabisa Local Municipality. The study's primary aim was to analyse LED initiatives towards poverty mitigation within the Big 5 Hlabisa Local Municipality. Qualitative methods were employed to collect and analyse data obtained from the youth community members and municipal officials with the LED department. Qualitative data were collected from the youth community members through questionnaires and from the municipality staff through interviews. The analysis of qualitative data was conducted through thematic analysis. This study and the identified problem were developed to analyse the possibility of LED initiatives to mitigate the poverty level and unemployment rate. For over two decades of democracy, “South Africa is still battling with the issues of poverty, inequality, unemployment, and hunger” (StatsSA, 2017). The study findings confirm South Africa’s remaining battle with the elevated level of poverty in rural areas and the high youth unemployment rate. The recommendations and innovative ideas may assist the municipality in facilitating the LED initiatives effectively through local community development.
An analysis of perceptions of health professionals on service delivery challenges at Ngwelezana hospital
(University of Zululand, 2014) Nkosi, Sinenhlanhla Precious; Isike, C.A.; Jili, N.N.
The study focused on the perceptions of health professionals on service delivery challenges at Ngwelezana hospital. The aim of the study was to determine the challenges faced by health professionals in the course of their work and how these challenges impact on service delivery at the hospital. This study reviewed studies on challenges of public healthcare in South Africa and Kwazulu- Natal, the impact of employee satisfaction and reviewed government policies on public healthcare services. Therefore the researcher collected data using questionnaires. The questionnaires were administered to 66 health professionals including both nurses and doctors. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative methods to analyse data. The study revealed the nature of the challenges that health professionals face during the course of their work and how these challenges prevent them from delivering quality service to those that seek medical attention on a day to day basis. The findings of the study revealed that health professionals were unhappy about their working conditions and they are experiencing heavy workload. The findings further suggested that health professionals feel neglected by management and that there is a constant lack of resources as a necessity during the course of their work. Furthermore, the study suggested that Ngwelezana hospital should review work environment and try to make it as conducive as possible, avoid burnout, absenteeism and unproductiveness of health professionals. The study also suggested that the hospital should reward and motivate employees of their performance in order to satisfy these employees for them to excel in their jobs. In conclusion government should review the Policies, Acts and Plans of public healthcare service delivery and try to make them effective and efficient in practice as they are on paper.
Analysis of personnel management practices and performance of government communication and information system in Free State Province, South Africa
(University of Zululand, 2023) Sonkwane, Fezile James; Jili, N.N. Ndebele, N.C.
This study focused on personnel management practices and the performance of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) in the Free State Province. The concern in the provincial office was weak communication service delivery to other sectors of government and citizens across the Free State Province. As cited in the literature review chapter, personnel management is a fundamental part of any organisation or entity and its prominence lies in the systematic management of human resources; which ought to guarantee inclusive and effective management of human capital in the organisation. This was a qualitative study whose design facilitated interactive encounters with participants, which resulted in in-depth and meaningful feedback linked to the objectives of the study. The study followed a case study design, in which data was collected through in-depth interviews with participants. The interview schedule included semi-structured questions because the researcher wanted to collect qualitative, open-ended data and explore participants‟ thoughts. The participants for this study included the provincial director, deputy director, assistant director and all regional coordinators of the GCIS in the Free State Province. A total six (6) participants out of a total population of eight (8) were included in the study. The number of participants supported context specific generalisation. Data for this study was analysed utilising a qualitative thematic analysis and interpretation. Trustworthiness of the data was achieved through member checks and triangulation. The key findings revealed that the GCIS Free State office needed a calibre of personnel with academic qualifications in order to carry out its mandate. Qualified personnel referred to personnel who meet the minimum standards of the posts and possess the competency to master the duties associated with the posts. Another finding was that constraints brought forth by the limited budget affect the implementation of certain tasks such as procurement of tools of trade and payment of overtime. The termination of cash bonuses and the slow salary increment were some factors that have affected morale amongst staff. Part of the key findings was that most participants associated performance assessments with the payment of performance bonuses. Without this financial incentive in place, the participants were not keen to undergo performance assessments. Hence the participants felt that their performance was not valued and rewarded. Lastly, the findings revealed that absenteeism in the GCIS Free State provincial office is minimised through proper management of individual leave plans. All of these context specific observations illustrated that both systemic and human related factors influence the communication service delivery in the Free State Province. OKUHUNYUSHWE NGOLIMI LWESIZULU ISIFINGQO Lolu cwaningo lugxile ekuphathweni kwabasebenzi kanye nokusebenza kohlelo lukahulumeni lwezokuxhumana nolwazi (GCIS), lwesifundazwe sase Freyistata. Okukhathazayo ehhovisi lesifundazwe kwaba ukuntenga kokulethwa kwezinsiza kweminye imikhakha kahulumeni nezakhamizi zizonke esifundazweni sase Freyistata. Njengoba kushiwo esahlukweni sokubuyekezwa kwezincwadi, ukuphathwa kwezisebenzi kuyingxenye ebalulekile yanoma iyiphi inhlangano noma ibhizinisi futhi ukuvelela kwaloko kulele ekuphathweni okuhlelekile kwezinsizakusebenza zabasebenzi, okufanele kuqinisekise ukuphathwa okubandakanyayo nokuphumelelayo ekuphathweni kwabantu enhlanganweni. Lolu bekuwucwaningo lwekhwalithethuvu, okuklama kwalo kwasiza ukuhlangana kwababambiqhaza, okuholele empendulweni ejulile nenengqondo exhumene nezinjongo zocwaningo, lapho idatha (ulwazi) yaqoqwa ngezingxoxo ezijulile nabahlanganyeli. Isheduli yenhlolokhono ibihlanganise imibuzo enesakhiwo esincane ngoba umcwaningi ubefuna ukuqoqa idatha (ulwazi) esezingeni eliphezulu, evulekile futhi ahlole imicabango yababambiqhaza. Ababambiqhaza balolu cwaningo bahlanganise umqondisi wesifundazwe, isekela lomqondisi, umsizi womqondisi, kanye nabobonke abaxhumanisi beGCIS esifundazweni saseFreyistata. Isamba sababambiqhaza abayi – 6 phakathi kwenani labantu abayi – 8 bafakiwe ocwaningweni. Ababambiqhaza basekele umongo oqondile ngokujwayelekile. Idatha yalolu cwaningo ihlaziywe kusetshenziswa ukuhlaziya kwe thematic esezingeni eliphezulu kanye nokutolika. Ukwethembeka kwedatha kufinyelelwe kuko ngokuhlolwa kwamalungu kanye nokuhlanganisa unxantathu. Okutholakele nokubalulekile kwembule ukuthi iGCIS yehhovisi laseFreyistata lidinga izinga labasebenzi abaneziqu zemfundo ephezulu ukuze imfundo yenze umsebenzi v wayo. Ngamanye amazwi: Laba bantu uma behlolwa abatholakale bewufanele umsebenzi abahlolelwa wona. Okunye ukungabikho kwemali kunqinda ukukwenzeka kwezinye zezinto ezithile njengokuthenga amathuluzi okuhweba kanye nokukhokhelwa kwesikhathi sokusebenza esingeziwe. Ukuqedwa kwezimali zomhlomulo nokugqoza kokukhushulwa kwamaholo kungezinye zezinto ezehlise isimilo kubasebenzi. Okunye okutholwe yilolu cwaningo ukuthi ababambiqhaza abaningi bahlobanise, bancikise ukuhlolwa kokusebenza nokukhokhwa kwamabhonasi. Ngaphandle kwale mihlomulo, ababambiqhaza abazimisele neze ukuba bahlolelwe ukusebenza ngoba babona sengathi ukusebenza kwabo akunakwa futhi akuklonyeliswa. Ekugcineni lolu cwaningo luthole ukuthi ukulova emsebenzini kuleli hhovisi lesifundazwe saseFreyistata kuyoncipha ngokuba kube nendlela ehlelekile yabasebenzi yokuya ekhefini. Konke loku okuphawuliwe nokuqondile kuveze ukuthi loku kokubili (izinto ezihlelekile nezihlobene) zinethonya ekulethweni izinsizakuxhumana ezifundazweni saseFreyistata.
An analysis of the dynamics and effects of interdepartmental policy discord on post-apartheid South Africa’s border control and border security
(University of Zululand, 2019) Mkhwanazi, Sandile Blessing
Borders have a primary responsibility of separating political entities (states) and the creation of national identities within states. In the African context, borders were created through colonial fiat, and have remained intact, except in the two cases: that of South Sudan and Eritrea. This study investigated inadequate policy harmonisation amongst the various departments or agencies responsible for border control in South Africa. In South Africa, there are seven departments responsible for border control, and they operate without a binding policy or legislation. This study investigated how this policy fragmentation from various agencies have affected border control and border security. Using qualitative approach with key informants from primary departments responsible for border control and analysing policy documents from primary departments, this study found that inadequate policy harmonisation amongst border control agencies does compromise border control and border security. It leads to ineffective practices in that work is duplicated, accountability is compromised and it leads to competition amongst agencies, and further leads to conflicts between agencies. Furthermore, inadequate policy harmonisation seemingly impedes the objectives of regional integration. The study also shows that South Africa has been observed to take a restrictive stance concerning immigration in that it puts the sovereignty of its interests above those of the region. Lastly, there have been calls to have an integrated approach towards border control which led to the introduction of Border Management Authority Bill (BMA). The BMA has been passed in the National Assembly, although it has been opposed by the opposition political parties owing to a number of concerns that emerged. The challenge of policy fragmentation has persisted as the political will to pursue the BMA softened due to changes in the political administration of the country, as it was initially developed during Jacob Zuma’s presidency, therefore, the change from Jacob Zuma to Cyril Ramaphosa changed the political actors who pushed for the BMA. The study then recommends that South Africa needs to harmonise its border policies and embrace regional integration.
Assessing the challenges of Postgraduate research: perspectives from University of Zululand
(University of Zululand, 2017) Mthethwa, BukhulubenkosiNathaniel
Universities the world over are recognised as institutions for the development of knowledge, learning and innovation. The purpose of postgraduate research is to foster the ability to efficiently investigate niche subjects during the research process. The point of postgraduate research is not necessarily to innovate or expand knowledge but to produce academic-research scholars. Most postgraduate research comprises basic research, applied, and collaborative research (Mutula, 2009). This study assessed the challenges of postgraduate research drawing on perspectives from the University of Zululand (UNIZULU). As a comprehensive university, the focus on UNIZULU provides an opportunity to understand how the challenges of postgraduate research from a previously disadvantaged South African university environment can be addressed. The study seeks to understand students’ and academic staff’s insights about the challenges facing postgraduate research with reference to UNIZULU. It adopts a mixed-methodology approach by generating data from questionnaires, interviews and focus-group interviews. Four primary questions were directed to 34 study participants to gather data relevant to the challenges experienced when conducting postgraduate research. The questions sought to understand these challenges from two sides (students and authorities). The findings of the study reveal that the challenges facing postgraduate research include a lack of supervision and mentorship, understaffed university, a lack of research-writing skills, a lack of funding, quality control and status recognition (as mentioned by the participants). The study traces the postgraduate challenges to a number of sources such as the university being understaffed, funding issues, a shortage of postgraduate facilities and the mismanagement of research documentation. The study concludes that the institution should implement cohort supervision and create its own funding scheme. Doing so would address the issues arising from the postgraduate research challenges. The study further suggests that the KZN education sector, and specifically UNIZULU, reviews its postgraduate research policies, especially on issues related to funding and housing. Such an undertaking would justify the huge annual investment needed to sustain postgraduate research
Assessing the challenges that hinder the provision of services in Newcastle Local Municipality
(University of Zululand, 2022-01-20) Manyoni, Samukelisiwe
One of the major challenges facing South African municipalities today is the provision of services to the local communities in a sustainable manner. The main focus of this study is therefore to assess the challenges that hinder the provision of services in local government using the case of Newcastle Local Municipality Qualitative research approach was employed in the study where data was collected using in-depth interview. Non-Probability sampling was used and Purposive sampling strategy was employed to select 1 key official of the municipality because they are the ones who are responsible to provide services to the local communities. Convenient sampling was employed to select 20 community members from different wards within the municipality included 2 wards councillors and 1 which in total makes 23 participants of the study. The results showed that corruption is one of the factors that cause challenges in the delivery of services, which is the factor that is happening within the municipality. The result also shows that the employment of family and friend within the municipality also contributes a lot in the challenges that hinder the delivery of services to local communities. . The findings show that the majority of the participants are not happy with the way the municipality render services to the community. The findings further reveal that the municipality does not involve people in local affairs so that they can take part in decision- making, and also that people with qualifications are jobless while the municipality is employing those who do not deserve because of the political party they follow. In conclusion, the study recommends that the municipality uses the prescribed criteria of employing public officials by the South African legislative framework, using merits and qualifications.
Assessing the role of traditional leaders and ward councilors in promoting community development in Umlalazi municipality
(University of Zululand, 2018) Mpungose, Muzi Sylvester Cyril; Jili, N.N.
The South Africa government and various interested parties have extensively debated the relevance and place of traditional leadership in our democracy. The core of the debate is the notion of incompatibility of this institution with democracy and human rights. The 1996 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa set the tone for the recognition of traditional leaders in a democratic dispensation. The study assessed the role of traditional leaders and ward councillors in promoting community development in uMlalazi Municipality. The aim was to identify the limitations in community development programmes and how much does traditional leaders observe government regulations in service delivery and the impact that it has created. Questionnaires were administered to a sample of 82 participants, but only 72 questionnaires were returned. The research participants were businesses, churches, ward committee members, ward councilors, traditional leaders, and community members. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods were used to analyse the data. The study revealed the challenges facing communities regarding development. It also became apparent that the South African Constitution does not clearly define the roles and responsibilities traditional leaders should play in society. Possible solutions were identified in a form of recommendations, that in the implementation of the Integrated Development Planning programmes they should consider Batho Pele principles.
An assessment of government’s national youth policies’ impact on entrepreneurship development of unemployed youths at grassroots Level in Empangeni.
(University of Zululand, 2017) Ede, C.I.
All over the world, public and private sectors of the economy have made ample effort in the formulation and implementation of development policies to alleviate the problem of youth unemployment in their society. Post-Apartheid governments in South Africa have not been different in their determination to improve on the lives of the youth through salient policies and programmes. Despite numerous efforts by government through voluminous legislative policies, little has been chronicled in terms of their efficacy and effectiveness due to the dearth of scholarly examination, especially at grassroots level. This is coupled with the fact that the few existing pieces of literature in the field have not reflected the plight of young people aged 1534, which is in line with the latest definition of ‘youth’ in South Africa. The study, therefore, intends to establish that, since 1994, the nation’s policy formulation and implementation mechanisms have made some impact (positive and negative alike) on the lives of its young populace, and the most prominent of its strategic policy – the Integrated Youth Development Strategy – has also impacted on both small and medium scale business sectors, as well as of large-scale enterprise development in the country. A sample size of over 185 respondents whose opinion was solicited by means of questionnaire and interview schedules formed the primary data source, and the evaluation of globally renowned youth development programmes like ‘Women’s Income Generating Support’ (WINGS), ‘Youth Opportunity Programme’ (YOP) and ‘Start and Improve Your Business’ (SIYB) in Uganda, formed the source of the secondary data of the study. The implication of this research is, if such result-oriented programmes can be replicated fully at the grassroots level in South Africa, young men and women will have new hopes for better economic engagement, in a country with one of the world’s highest unemployment rates. The uniqueness of this study is consistent with overall national concern to the deteriorating situation of unemployed youths in South Africa, whose protracted state of redundancy in a supposed leading economy on the continent can no longer be condoned.
An assessment of the causes and implications of brain drain on South Africa’s socio-economic development: the case study of the Higher Education and Health Sectors
(University of Zululand, 2017) Mlambo, Halalisani Victor
Countries around the world have continuously invested billions in educating their citizens, with the hope that the skills and knowledge acquired through education will help increase the country’s productivity and contribute to the sustainability of economic growth. But over the years, globalization has resulted in the increase in the demand and competition for skilled workers around the world. In South Africa, the higher education and health sector have been adversely affected by emigrating skilled professionals; South Africa is characterized by high levels of brain drain owing to many socio-economic factors. Fortunately for South Africa, highly skilled foreign nationals (especially from Africa) have continued to view South Africa a favourable destination. This study aims to assess the causes and implications of brain drain and how it has affected South Africa’s socio-economic development with reference to the health and higher education sectors. The main research problem focused on what causes South Africans to migrate; the pull and push factors, and what has been the implication for South Africa’s socio-economic development. Using secondary data, the study combed through various sources of information pertaining to the theme of the study, various sources such as, books, Journals, online accredited publications where used to garner the data needed for the successful completion of the study. Results indicated that the push factors driving South Africans to migrate include: increased crime levels, lack of law and order, government corruption and better economic opportunities offered in other countries. The study also found that skilled foreign nationals (Mainly from Africa) have contributed extensively to the socio- economic development of the country. The study also suggested that, government together with civil society need to come together to devise strategies on how to reduce brain drain in the country, to achieve this, the study suggests, the development of a South African green card lottery program, an increase in investments and funding for higher education, the training of competent health workers, A comprehensible immigration policy and an Increase in public-private collaboration maybe some ways which can help fight brain drain in South Africa.
An assessment of the effects of xenophobia on social integration in Isiphingo, KwaZulu-Natal province
(University of Zululand, 2018) Dlamini, Nompumelelo Prudence; Adetiba, T.C
Over two decades after South Africa’s initial democratic ‘baptism’; the country still struggles with social integration. With clear traces of its segregated, discriminatory past, the country continues to experience high levels of violence against foreign nationals; particularly African foreign nationals. Former President of South Africa, the late Nelson Mandela, proclaimed the country as a rainbow nation, one which will accommodate people of different nationalities and backgrounds. However, the world observed the occurrence of the much-publicized xenophobic attacks in 2008 and 2015. These attacks left many foreign nationals destitute, some dead and others displaced. Historically during the apartheid era, South Africans found refuge in neighbouring African countries, mostly in the Southern African region. However, recent migration pattern reveals a reverse as other parts of the continent face political unrests and wars leading more Africans to seek refuge in South Africa and other parts of the continent and world. Sequel to the 2015 xenophobic violent outburst that first erupted in Isiphingo, the study assessed the effects of xenophobia on Social Integration in the society (Isiphingo). Prior to 2008 much publicized xenophobic violence it is a fact that Black foreign nationals are often attacked compared to other nationals. The study examined the role played by the South African government in enhancing social integration and eradicating xenophobia. The study argues that there are negative implications associated with the persistence of xenophobic violence towards foreign nationals, African foreign nationals in particular. This may hinder regional integration with other African countries in future. The study reveals that South Africa’s previous experience of isolation from the international arena, government officials and the media are contributory factors which incite violence towards foreign nationals. Citizens lack proper understanding and knowledge in understanding the different categories of foreign nationals and the nature of their problems in their countries of origins. The results reveal that the South African government has been in denial of the existence of xenophobia in the country. Some expectations have been put on the government in correcting the mistakes of the past. However, at the realisation that change is not immediate South Africans retaliate and foreign nationals are used as scapegoats of these frustrations. There is no specific law that addresses xenophobic violence, and there has been a significant failure on the side of the government in addressing the root causes of xenophobia in South Africa. The study came with several recommendations, one being that the government of South Africa should not deny the existence of xenophobia in the country this will help in eradicating IX | Page it. There is a great need to come up with specific laws and policies that address the problem of xenophobia.
The contribution of the employee health and wellness programme (ehwp) on job performance among social service professionals in the Gert Sibande district, Mpumalanga province.
(University of Zululand, 2019) Mntungwa, Makhosonke Hanson
This study aimed at assessing the contribution of the Employee Health and Wellness Programme on job performance among Social Service Professionals at Gert Sibande District, Mpumalanga Province. The methodological approach employed by the study was survey research design which favours quantitative research approach and stratified random sampling was also utilized. The study targeted 146 participants which a sample size of 106 participants was selected emanating from Social Work Managers, Social Work Supervisors and Social Service Professionals in the Mpumalanga Department of Social Development at Gert Sibande District. Quantitative data was produced through structured questionnaires and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The main findings of the study revealed that majority of respondents were of the view that EHWP services should be decentralised to at least district offices of the Mpumalanga Department of Social Development for accessibility purposes. It was evident that there is a remarkable gap between employees who are aware of EHWP services and those who are not. Furthermore, results show that utilization rate of EHWP services was curiously low. Most importantly, the study recommended that the Mpumalanga Department of Social Development should employ viable and employee-centred marketing strategies to accelerate employees’ awareness and ascertain accessibility of EHWP services within the entire department. It further recommended that accessibility of the EHWP largely depends on the restructuring of EHWP section from being a subsection to a Directorate. Ideally, it may be assumed that when employees are satisfied with their job, they are likely to be healthier, thereby increasing their morale, performance and organisational service delivery. Moreover, this study provides a broader insight into a wide range of strategic frameworks and pieces of legislations governing the Employee Health and Wellness in the South African workplace. The researcher concludes that the potential of the Employee Health and Wellness initiatives can only be achieved when wellness is rooted within the core corporate strategy of public sector organisations where it will be viewed as an integral part to success. This therefore denotes that, employees should be viewed as valuable resource, be appreciated, protected and preserved rather than perceived as a unit of production.
The cost of elections and election administration: a comparison of Nigeria and South Africa
(University of Zululand, 2024) Ojedokun, Babatunde Abayomi; Jili, N. N. and Akinola,A. O.
The study comparatively examined the influence of electoral costs on election administration in Nigeria and South Africa. The crucial question, therefore, was that whether higher costs expended on election administration translate to better performance in election administration by the election management bodies (EMBs) to produce credible elections in Nigeria and South Africa? The study therefore, examined the level of the costs of election administration in Nigeria and South Africa; assessed how efficient election administration is in Nigeria and South Africa; appraised the factors impacting on the rising costs of election administration in Nigeria and South Africa; examined the influence of electoral costs on the performance of EMBs in election administration in Nigeria and South Africa; and identified other factors influencing election administration in Nigeria and South Africa. This study became important as there remains a general lack of consensus in existing literature on whether the costs expended on election administration translate into better performance of the EMBs in election administration and delivery of credible elections. This study sought to comparatively establish the case for Nigeria and South Africa. The study utilized primary and secondary data sourced from Nigeria and South Africa. It adopted the exploratory research design, the qualitative method of data collection and analysis, and the interpretivist/constructivist research paradigm. Primary data was sourced using semi-structured interviews. A total of twenty-one (21) key informant interviewees (KIIs) were purposively selected from relevant electoral stakeholders in the countries of study, based on their experiences, expertise and practical involvement in electoral costs/budgeting, and election administration in the countries. Data collected was analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. On the other hand, secondary data was sourced from relevant extant literature on the subject matter. Hence, secondary data was sourced from textbooks, journal and magazine articles, newspaper reports, official documents and gazettes, and the Internet. The secondary data complemented the primary data for this study. Theoretically, the study adopted the resource-based view (RBV) theory of management to further the understanding of the relationship between electoral costs and election administration. The RBV theory was used to further buttress how resources available to the electoral commission influences election administration in South Africa, while the submission of the framework was refuted for the case of Nigeria, wherein it is not always the case that better level of efficiency in election administration was achieved when more resources were deployed in election administration. While the assumption of the framework was therefore, valid for South Africa, it was not the case for Nigeria. Findings show that the costs of election administration in Nigeria and South Africa have been rising astronomically since 1999 and 1994 respectively. On the efficiency in election administration in the countries, the study found that while there have been improvements in election administration in Nigeria, there are still serious perennial challenges besetting the process, which continue to undermine high level of efficiency in election administration. Whereas, for South Africa, the level of efficiency attained in election administration over the years, is relatively high, albeit, with embedded challenges too. The study also revealed that both common and specific factors continue to influence the rising costs of election administration in Nigeria and South Africa. Among the common factors are inflation, rising voting population and number of political parties, foreign exchange volatility, the quest by the electoral commissions to improve the electoral process, and the increasing use of technologies for election administration, etc. Specifically for Nigeria, the large size of the country and huge population, high spate of electoral insecurity, and staggered elections were identified; while for South Africa, monies allotted to political parties, overseas voting, special vote system, and increased electoral litigations, etc. were identified. Findings also revealed that while electoral costs are generally germane for successful election administration, the costs expended on election administration in Nigeria has not culminated in better performance of the Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in election administration and delivery of credible elections. Whereas, for South Africa, the costs expended on election administration has glaringly impacted on the performance of the South African Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) over the years. Furthermore, the study showed that a host of other common and specific factors, other than costs influence election administration in Nigeria and South Africa. Among the common factors are logistics challenges, legal requirements, and restrictions, and partial and partisan ad-hoc electoral officers, etc. Specifically for Nigeria, factors such as pressure and political interference from diverse political actors in the country, lack of critical electoral reforms and proper training of INEC personnel, political will, and the appointment procedures of principal officers of INEC, etc. continue to influence election administration. For South Africa, economic realities (scarce resources), violence, gerrymandering, poor voter education, and the lingering impact of apartheid, etc. are some of the other factors influencing election administration in the country. The study concluded that whereas electoral costs are important for successful election administration, nevertheless, it is not always the case that higher electoral costs will guarantee better performance of EMBs in the election administration and delivery of credible elections, just as the cases of Nigeria and South Africa have shown. Among others, the study made some recommendations that there is the urgent need for the South African parliament to increase the budget and funding of the IEC, to improve their performance in election administration; and that both the Nigerian INEC and the South African IEC need to adopt a recycling (re-use) of ad-hoc electoral personnel for different elections, in order to save the costs expended on training fresh hands during each election year and ensure that people become experts and professionals of election administration over time. Furthermore, both Nigerian and South African Parliaments and executive arms of government must be more deliberate and show more political will to ensure accountability within the electoral commissions in the countries.
The efficacy of government strategies towards improving informal settlements in Rustenburg local municipality
(University of Zululand, 2021) Sishawu, Rose Unathi
It is important to understand the propagation of informal settlements. They do not only represent the high housing demand but also its effects on the development and transformation of South Africa if remaining unimproved. Several studies divulge that informal settlements do not only serve as a solution to the government’s failures to provide housing to the people, but they serve as a shelter to the homeless and urban poor. Although certain housing interventions and programmes have been implemented to improve informal settlements, most informal settlements (Rustenburg and across South Africa) still lack access to basic services. According to this study a divergence exists in the literature in determining the efficacy of strategies to improve informal settlements, regardless of years of studies conducted in informal settlements. This study aimed to analyse the efficacy of local government strategies towards improving informal settlements in Rustenburg Local Municipality. A qualitative approach was employed to conduct this investigation. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were implemented as an instrument to collect data. This research, therefore, investigated the settlements demographics, background, and strategies to improve informal settlements. It also reveals the challenges of informal settlements encountered by the settlement dwellers and the municipality, community participation, and the relationship between the municipality and the informal communities. The study findings indicate that the strategies implemented to improve informal settlements are ineffective; this was evident from the responses of participants who indicated that these settlements lack access to basic services. The lack of access to basic services in these settlements is a reflection of ineffective strategies. The concluding Chapter 5 comprises study recommendations
The entrenchment of public service ethics in the public schools System: a case study of Umhlathuze Local Municipality
(University of Zululand, 2019) Nxumalo, Thabani Israel
The entrenchment of public service ethics in the public-school system in the uMhlathuze Local Municipality is aimed at improving the behaviour of school-based and office-based educators which can have a positive significant in reducing corruption and all other forms of unethical conduct in the public sector. Ethics is important in public administration, particularly in public schools of uMhlathuze Local Municipality, and the whole of King Cetshwayo District and South Africa as a whole. A total of 125 learners from 25 public schools in the uMhlathuze Local Municipality and a total of 125 school-based educators participated in the research study. The study also collected data from five Office-based educators from each circuit including the uMhlathuze Cluster Manager. Data analysis was done using both qualitative and quantitative methods which include inferential and descriptive statistics. Data was based on information related to the perception of school–based and office-based educators about the entrenchment of public service ethics in the public-school system of uMhlathuze local Municipality. Research findings demonstrated that there were many challenges surrounding the implementation of public service ethics in uMhlathuze Local Municipality. Seventy- five per cent of the respondents indicated that, although there are measures in place, they were not explained to school-based educators. It is clear that school-based educators have a challenge regarding access to information. It is a futile exercise to make a host of policies but to make insufficient effort to ensure that they are understood by the people involved and are properly implemented in the work place. Controversy surrounds the behaviour of school-based and office-based educators in uMhlathuze Local Municipality and the King Cetshwayo District, particularly in the appointment of post level-one educators and in the promotion posts of Principals, Deputy Principals, Heads of Department and office-based posts. Public servants are expected to conform to ethical standards in the public sector, and to promote ethical leadership. The media has recently exposed a large number of cases of unethical conduct specifically within the South African Education Department, and particularly in the uMhlathuze Local Municipality, where school-based educators use corporal xiii punishment and are suspected of having sexual relations with learners. Amundsen, (2009:10) argues that, “the public sector is composed of two core elements; at the political level there are political institutions where policies are formulated and the (major) decisions are made, and at the administrative there is the public sector administration, which is in charge of implementing these policies”. South Africa seems to have a number of good policies, but the implementation of polices and decisions are raised only now and again, either at the Provincial Level or at Local Government Level. In the light of what has been stated above, it is evident that there is a need for the entrenchment of public service ethics in the public-school system, particularly in the uMhlathuze Local Municipality. There seems to be a crisis in public confidence in the government and a lack of public trust in public institutions. A Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign cannot be effective where there is a lack of public trust. Professionalism should be maintained at all times. School-based and office-based morality should be addressed by entrenching public service ethics in the public-school system. All other stakeholders such as learners, educators’ Unions and school governing bodies should also be sensitive to ethical issues. In the last chapter of this study the researcher has highlighted some recommendations to be implemented as a turnaround strategy, which should enhance the entrenchment of public service ethics in uMhlathuze Local Municipality and in South Africa as a whole. The following key words have been used in the study: public service ethics, corruption, professional code of ethics, professionalism, and public sector. It is important to highlight the indispensability of ethics and of sound ethical conduct amongst school-based and office-based educators in the uMhlathuze Local Municipality. Public service ethics need to be understood clearly by school-based and office-based educators, if there is seriousness about the desire to achieve quality education in South Africa. No one should compromise the implementation of the Public Service Code of Conduct, (2016). This can enhance the implementation of the National Development Plan towards the realisation of goals for 2030. The entrenchment of public service ethics in the public-school system in the uMhlathuze Local Municipality is aimed reducing corruption and all other forms of unethical conduct. The entrenchment of public service ethics in public schools is a subject of importance in the third decade of South Africa`s democracy. Various public administration gurus such Wood, xiv (2004:188), Moilanen and Salimanne, (2006:22), Meguid, (2011:5), Dale, (2000:180), MacCarthaigh, (2008:18 and Kernaghan (2003), unanimously agree that the following principles serve as cornerstones for public life; these include: selflessness, integrity, honesty, leadership, objectivity, openness and accountability. These principles should be instilled in the minds of all school-based and office-based educators so as to produce quality service delivery and quality education in South Africa. Public servants in general and public representatives, including political office bearers should gain the public trust. It is true that corruption is a challenge on a Global, National, Provincial and Local level, and should be tackled ethically. Giving affirmation to the status quo can serve as a major blow to economic development and to social needs. Corruption is perceived as a threat by many authors globally and should be reduced because it has a negative impact on a country that ironically subscribes to democratic values and principles of public administration. These authors include Waweru (2010), Menzel, (2015 and Kimath, (2010).
The ethical dilemmas of whistle-blowing and corruption in the South African public sector.
(2005) Mbatha, Joel Sifiso; ;
This thesis focussed on three key concepts: ethics, corruption and whistleblowing. These concepts are examined within the context of the South African public sector. The meanings of the concepts corruption, ethics, values, morality and human rights, as well as their influence on the public official were investigated. The context of the role of ethics, conformity, as well as the various causes, manifestations and conditions in society that allow corruption to occur among public officials and political office bearers were also clarified. By drawing upon relevant theories in literature that concem the ethical dilemmas of the prospective whistle-blower, the thesis also attempted to determine how heterogeneous employees of different cultures, backgrounds and education, perceived ethics, corruption and whistle-blowing. It was also an aim of the thesis to investigate and expand upon the important ideas advanced by the documented literature and legislation in order to investigate employees' perceptions with regard to ethics and corruption. Attention was paid to an infrastructure for transparent and ethical govemance, manifestation of unethical conduct, as well as statutory guidelines and codes of conduct. A variety of measures and instruments. both nationally and intemationally were discussed. Specific attention is paid to national integrity systems, legislative measures to control corruption and promote the disclosure of malpractice. as well as other formal mechanisms and judicial measures to protect whistle blowers. The importance of the Protected Disclosures Act of 2000 as a prerequisite for democracy was highlighted. Attention was given to whistle-blowing as an internal control mechanism by providing definitions, investigating the characteristics of prospective whistle blowers and examining the process of whistle-blowing. The context within which whistle-blowing occurs was scrutinised and responses by organisations were discussed. The findings of research into official, primary and secondary sources are integrated with the existing legislation and presented in the context of the specific problems associated with the ethical dilemmas of whistle-blowing in the South African public sector. The thesis also attempted to present some indicators and potential predictors of Whistle-blowing. It was established that, despite the clear emphasis on whistle-blowing as an internal mechanism to combat corruption and new legislative protection in terms of protected disclosures, corruption has not been eliminated from public institutions. It was also evident that the fear of reprisals as a result of a disclosure is still a factor that negatively impacts on effective whistle-blowing. Indeed, the fear of retaliation after blowing the whistle, may have more effect on some employees that the actual fear of the detrimental effect of being a victim of corruption as such. The thesis hypothesised that public sector employees' perceptions and the government's understanding of ethical behaviour and corruption are important, as they can serve as useful indicators and yardsticks to measure the progress in disclosing and managing corruption. KEY TERMS Whistle-blowing: Ethics: Values: Morality: Information; Disclosures; Corruption; Greed; Patronage: Nepotism; Bribery: Graft; Ghosting; Code of Ethics; Fraud: Governance: Government.
The ethics of transparency in the public sector
(2005) Zikhali, Lawrence Jabulani; Vyas-Doorgapersad, S.
This dissertation focused on the ethics of transparency in the public sector. The study was inspired by various sets of circumstances in the Republic of South Africa in which corruption and secrecy in terms of the activities of the public sector played an important role. In the study, consideration was given to the various definition of the concept of ethics, values and morals as well as how ethics, values and morals affect public officials in corruption. An objective of the study was to describe and analyse the special role played by ethical dimensions as a variable in establishing a framework within which openness and transparency have to take place in the public sector. The public official accepts the code of ethics as the standard against which ethical behavior will be measured, it will ensure that the acts of public officials are at all times transparent and ethical and conforms to morality and values. Clarification was given to the meaning, causes and manifestation of corruption, where corruption deemed to have taken place whenever a public official involve in corruptible behavior such as the misuse of his / her power in exercising his/her duties as well as deviating from prescribed rules and regulations, such behavior being to that person's benefit and detrimental to the public. This study also centered around to the measures available to combat the manifestations of corruption. Possible remedies for unethical and untransparent conduct were discussed. The concept of accountability, the role of a free press and other formal measures deployed against corruption and transparent governance were also discussed. Governments has an obligation to communicate with citizens and citizens have a right to be informed of Government's policy and actions to enable them to comply with the requirements arising from governments policies. They also need information to be able to exercise their democratic rights to be able to decide on the basis of accurate information.
Evaluating the effectiveness of the provision of low-cost housing within the KwaDukuza Municipality a case study of Ntshawini and Ethethe area
(University of Zululand, 2020) Ntombela, Jabulisiwe Nomathamsanqa
The study focused on evaluating the effectiveness of the provision of low-cost housing within the KwaDukuza Municipality (KwaZulu-Natal Province), using Ntshawini and eThethe as areas of study. The main aim of the study was to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of the processes and procedures utilised in the provision of low-cost housing, as well as understand the perception of the general public regarding the provision of low-cost housing. The departure of the study was mainly centred on the increasing number of concerns and violent protests taking place in the various parts of South Africa emphasising the inadequacy or rather lack of proper delivery of government housing to its beneficiaries encompassed with the right to housing found in section 26 of the South African constitution. Thereafter, the researcher took cognisance of the increasing number of protests and petitions which demanded low-cost housing within the KwaDukuza Municipal jurisdiction and opted to conduct an original research highlighting the processes and procedures involved, the role of local government (the Municipality itself) in the provision of low-cost houses, the barriers affecting the distribution of human settlements/ low-cost housing as well as the ill effects imposed on the community members due to the lack of the provision of adequate low-cost houses/human settlements. The researcher then proceeded with the investigation using a qualitative method for the analysis upon which conclusions were drawn to sample 50 participants inclusive of Municipal officials, ward councillors and the general public from two identified areas (Entshawini and eThethe) of interest which were areas that have been reported numerous times of having housing related protests. The main findings convey the public being highly unsatisfied and antagonised by the KwaDukuza Municipality for the lack of and untimely delivery, lack of involvement, lack of communication and an incomprehensible housing allocations policy for the already built houses. The findings also show the efforts made by the Municipality in ascertaining the efficient and effective delivery of these houses while addressing the challenges, barriers and difficulties that come with the provision of housing. The study articulated the perceptions of the public as well as the information regarding the processes and procedures involved obtained from the Municipality to draw unbiased conclusions with amicable and viable recommendations.
An evaluation of service delivery at eNdondakusuka local municipality
(2005) Ngubane, Mpilo Brilliance; Sabela, T.R.; Vyas-Doorgapersad, S.
This study aimed at evaluating service delivery at e'Ndondakusuka Local Municipality. This evaluation was done on the delivery of two services which are water and refuse removal in the whole municipal area. This research was necessitated by the fact that different points of view reveal that the present service delivery paradigms in local government are highly challenged. The study tested the null hypothesis of no relationship between the availability of resources and effective service delivery within e'Ndondakusuka Local Municipality. This hypothesis was operationalised by stating that (a) the availability of more water-tankers would extend the basic service of free water to rural areas within the municipality and (b) the availability of more refuse collection trucks would increase the number of days refuse was collected within the municipality. The statement of the problem, therefore, provided a foundation within which the aims of the study and the hypothesis were explained. The significance of this research cannot be overemphasised especially against the backdrop that the new system of local government has just been implemented and there is yet a study on service delivery in this segment of the public sector. It is true that there are lots of problems hampering service delivery within municipalities, however, for the sake of this research not all of them were studied. There were, however, some limitations within the study, however, they could not hinder or jeopardise the research process. These limitations are stated. Contextualisation of the study was based on the existing legislative, theoretical and conceptual perspectives that apply to service delivery. These perspectives had to be drawn from various sources to test the effectiveness of service delivery. The study also outlined the research method and technique used. The nature of the study necessitated the use of questionnaires to elicit information from households. The researcher then presented, analysed and discussed research findings. The nature of the study enabled the use of tables and frequency distribution to present data. In drawing conclusions it became clear that there were problems hampering service delivery at e'Ndondakusuka Local Municipality. The main problem was the lack of resources to provide services. To obviate these problems recommendations were made to the municipality. This research culminated into a model of effective service delivery.
An evaluation of the efficiency and effectiveness of competency based training programmes : the case of the Department of Social Welfare and Population Development
(2005) Kunene, Caiphus Mhlonipheni.; Doorgapersad, S.V.
The statement of the problem therefore provided a foundation within which the purpose and the objectives of the study as well as the hypothesis were explained. Therefore the purpose of the study cannot be overemphasized against the concerns raised by the top-management of the department on the lack of the return on investment The study also outlined the research methods and techniques used. The nature of the study warranted the use of questionnaires which were distributed to the sample population of employees in social security. Face to face interviews were conducted as well to elicit information from the unit of analysis. The five-point lickert scale was used to measure the relationship between the transference of skills from the learning environment into a real working environment. The nature of the study enabled the use of tables and exposed itself to the probability sampling frames. When analyzing data, the researcher took the responsibility of going through all the information presented in a form of questionnaires by the recipients of framing. Frequencies and percentages accompanied by a chi-square were used to analyze data. The researcher then presented analyzed and discussed research findings. In drawing conclusions, the study highlighted a number of weaknesses and strengths associated with training, pre-training procedures as well as the formative and summative evaluation processes. To eradicate these problems, recommendations were made, for example, trainees should be involved from the word go when the determination of training needs takes place. There should be a direct involvement of supervisors and managers in all training cycles for example in training needs determination up to the level of training evaluation where the impact of training is determined. BATHO PELE should be in the center of all training processes. The presenters of training need to be scrutinized to determine their alignment with the South African Qualification Authority Act of 1995.
An Evaluation of the Practice of Basic Values and Principles of Public Administration in the Zululand District.
(University of Zululand, 2022) Mdhluli, Sifundo Kenneth
The fundamental values and principles of public administration—embodied in the RSA Constitution (1996), stipulate a set of rules governing public administration in all spheres of government. These values and principles apply to each South African and must be implemented by elected representatives and public servants. This study evaluated whether local municipalities in the Zululand District practice the democratic values and principles of public administration. The study examined how practising democratic values and principles of public administration can improve governance and service delivery in Zululand. This study identified practices for fostering democratic values and principles of public administration in the district. The study adopted a qualitative research method. Purposive sampling was employed to select municipal, while simple random sampling selected community members as study participants. Data were collected through virtual and physical interviews with municipal officials and community members from Zululand. A deductive approach was employed to analyse data where research questions grouped the data, identifying similarities and differences. Data were classified into themes generated by the research questions. The study findings revealed how Zululand incorporates the values and principles of public administration with local government objectives. Zululand Municipality emphasises the importance of these values and principles to all its employees, encouraging them to continue using them in executing their daily tasks. The study revealed how fundamental values and principles of public administration produce good governance in Zululand. Conflicting observations exist between municipal officials and community members. Municipal officials contend a clear practice of the fundamental values and principles of public administration within the district, whereas some community members strongly disagree with this claim. This study recommends that municipal officials always know the constitutional values in their daily service to society, based on the research findings. Human rights should be respected and promoted, prioritising the community’s interests. Officials should maintain constitutional authority, upholding the rule of law. Public servants must endorse the Constitution and its values and principles, and citizens should hold officials accountable for their actions. The study recommends more accountability from the municipality and appointing officials with proper skills and education on how to govern the municipality. Appointing individuals with tertiary qualifications in law or public administration could also be effective, enabling an understanding of the constitutional values. Keywords: Constitution, values, principles, public administration, local government.

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