Wits Business School (ETDs)

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    Assessing the performance of Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa on the South African Economy
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mathaba, Thembinkosi Rodney; Horvey, Sylvester
    This study assessed the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa's (PRASA) performance and its economic impact. Using a qualitative approach, the research evaluated PRASA's current state, explored turnaround strategies, and examined economic consequences. Semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and document analysis were employed, with data analyzed through thematic analysis. The main findings reveal that significant operational challenges, including infrastructure deterioration and service disruptions, are exacerbated by COVID-19. Financial sustainability issues, governance instabilities, and systemic problems like skills gaps and procurement delays were identified as major impediments. PRASA's decline has increased transportation costs for commuters, negatively impacting local economies and businesses. Based on these findings, the study recommends prioritizing infrastructure modernization, enhancing security, restructuring funding models, and improving governance. Policy implications involve better aligning subsidies, strengthening oversight, and fostering collaborative partnerships for local economic development. These insights aim to support PRASA's revitalization and promote inclusive economic growth in South Africa.
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    “The impact of the South African national defence force armed forces week on local economies post Covid”
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Kenny, Leon Rodney; Kriek, Drikus
    The purpose of this applied research study was to assess the economic impact of the armed forces event on the Nelspruit local municipality. The rationale behind choosing this particular local municipality was based on the decision made by the Military Command Council (MCC) to designate Mpumalanga as the host province and Nelspruit as the host city. Regrettably, this occurrence took place during the initial phase of lockdown, known as level 1, and was integrated into the city's strategy for revitalizing the economy in the aftermath of the COVID- 19 pandemic. Despite being a military exercise, this event holds considerable significance as it exhibits the defining characteristics of hallmark events within its category. The research incorporated both secondary and primary data sources and a cost benefit analysis methodology was used. The results suggest that this particular event had a direct economic impact of R50 665 000 on the local economy, hence benefiting a multitude of businesses in the vicinity. Furthermore, the extended duration during which the troops of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) were stationed in the host city created a favourable setting for the advancement of commercial activities. The study holds significance since it highlights the potential of the Department of Defence to contribute to socio-economic upliftment, as outlined in the Defence Act, Act 42 of 2002