Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)
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Item Fostering the retention of talented and skilled employees by understanding the motivators of employee turnover intention from a South African SMME perspective(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Edayi, Juliet; Venter, RobertCurrent small, micro and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) are concerned about understanding the preliminary factors that prompt employees to leave their organisation (i.e., labour turnover intention) rather than to wait, only to be left to deal with the disruptive and costly consequences of actual employee turnover. The extant literature has widely provided evidence to justify that employee turnover is very destructive and presents many costs for organisations due to its counterproductive nature. South African small and micro businesses constantly endure high rates of employee turnover as other businesses (especially big companies) are frequently poaching highly skilled workers. This burden has made it increasingly challenging for SMMEs to keep, particularly highly skilled and high-performing employees, whose talents are highly sought after and are paramount to their firm’s overall success and sustainability. Therefore, this study was conducted from an SMME context so as to equip small and micro business employers with fresh insights on how proactively adjust their employee retention strategies and foster their continued survival and long-term growth. Moreover, the South African labour market has a limited number of high-performing and brilliant employees who eventually become assets to the business once hired, thus creating a need to retain such talented personnel. The shortage of skilled labour coupled with the high costs of attracting, hiring and training new employees proffers a compelling need for scholars to actively direct their research attention to unravelling this phenomenon of labour turnover intention. Research outputs will positively equip SMME practitioners with the relevant and proven information for them to devise well-informed retention strategies before employees’ intention to quit the organisation manifests itself into an actual turnover. This study sought to achieve a meaningful understanding of the interplay between the complex relationships that exist between the selected variables and to establish how this comprehension can aid SMME practitioners in effectively reducing employee turnover rate to a reasonable proportion. For this study to establish this ultimate goal, an empirical investigation was done amongst employees in selected SMMEs in Gauteng province of South Africa. A conceptual framework that depicted all the relationships was developed and several hypotheses were formulated based on the evidence from the extant literature. This study utilised a cross-sectional research design through a quantitative-based method. A structured questionnaire was formulated and was administered in-person, and additionally distributed via emails. Data was gathered through non-probability convenience sampling, whereby 338 valid responses were received from employees across the selected SMMEs in Gauteng. iv Descriptive statistics (e.g., item analysis, Cronbach’s alpha computation) and bivariate correlation analysis were analysed using SPSS v 28 and inferential statistics were analysed through Structural Equation Modeling was undertaken using AMOS v 28. While the findings of this study corroborated the outcomes that were submitted by earlier scholars, some fresh and exciting directions in the associations between specific variables were established. This study eventually submitted a unique conceptual model that depicts the validated interactions between the study variables. It is believed that the confirmed associations detailed in the conceptual model will be used as guidelines for small and micro business practitioners to meaningfully and effectively manage employee turnover intentions while simultaneously fostering the retention of talented and high-performing workers. This investigation concluded by recommending that a similar study must be replicated using a mixed-method approach that applies probability sampling and longitudinal research design so as to address the methodological shortcomings that characterised this study.Item Examining the Effect of Women’s Empowerment on Multidimensional Poverty: Case of South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ratshivhand, Thonifho; Benhura, MiracleThis study examines the levels and correlations of individual women’s empowerment and household level multidimensional poverty in South Africa, overall and by rural/ urban location. The Alkire-Foster (2011) techniques is employed for the construction of the Women Empowerment Index (WEI) and Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), and a logistic regression analysis is employed to ascertain whether women’s empowerment is negatively correlated to multidimensional poverty. The study uses the 2016 South African Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) dataset and estimates that 3.2% of South African households are multidimensionally poor, with a higher prevalence in rural areas. In both rural and urban areas, the standard of living dimension contributed most to MPI. Regarding WEI, women residing in urban areas (67.3%) are more empowered compared to those residing in rural areas (53.9%), with attitude towards domestic violence dimension contributing most to women’s empowerment. Findings from logistic regressions show that women’s empowerment is negatively associated with multidimensional poverty in South Africa. Women in older age groups and better paid occupations are associated with lower multidimensional poverty, also non-Black/African women and those residing in urban areas have a lower chance of experiencing multidimensional poverty, than Black/African women and those residing in urban areas. Overall, this study highlights the importance of addressing women's empowerment as a key strategy for poverty reduction in South Africa. The results suggest a need for customised strategies to improve women’s empowerment and reduce multidimensional poverty in South Africa's rural and urban areas.Item Exploring the reporting lag among JSE-listed entities(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ritzlmayr, Matthew Andreas; Maroun, Warren; Ecim, DusanThis thesis investigates how variations in “inherent”, “control” and “detection risk” may account for reporting lags for entities listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) from 2017 to 2021. The reporting lag is the time between the financial year-end and the date of the audit report. Seven hypotheses are tested using panel regression and a sample of 100 companies listed on the JSE from 2017 to 2021. The regression analysis was performed to identify if client factors (classified as sources of inherent and control risk) or auditor characteristics (classified as sources of detection risk) may impact the reporting lag. A battery of sensitivity tests is used to confirm the findings. The model developed using inherent, control and detection risk, was able to explain the reporting lag. Entities characterised by higher levels of inherent and control risk show an increase in the reporting lag. An increase in detection risk also leads to an increase in the reporting lag. The article proposes a novel conceptual model for classifying client and auditor characteristics in terms of the risk which material misstatements in financial statements go undetected. The inherent, control and detection risk framework provides a comprehensive assessment of reporting lag determinants grounded in a well-established risk and assurance discourse which resonates with both academics and practitioners. Findings complement a relatively large body of work on reporting lags which prioritise developed economies. The results offer one of the first accounts of the reporting lags from a key African economy while controlling for the effects of pre-and post-COVID impacts.Item Limitations of litigation as a tool for achieving social change: A perspective on South African and Zimbabwean litigation environment(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Sigwegwe, Dumolwethu; Samtani, SanyaThis research report seeks to investigate and analyse the limitations of using litigation as a tool for achieving social change in the legal environments of South Africa and Zimbabwe, with a particular focus on relevant provisions in the Constitutional framework. In other words, I consider how litigation related to socioeconomic rights, with a particular focus on the right to healthcare, has been limited in its capacity to bringing about societal transformation. Juxtaposing these legal systems should highlight the opportunities and challenges of utilising litigation. In South Africa the 1996 Constitution, and in Zimbabwe the 2013 Constitution play a significant role in shaping socio-economic rights, enhancing access to justice, and promoting social transformation. Further, the Bill of Rights and the Constitutional Court all contribute to the potential effectiveness of litigation. Relying on the Constitutional framework, literature concerning the effectiveness and critique of litigation, and case studies from South Africa and Zimbabwe the article illustrates the potential and shortfalls of litigation in advancing socio- economic rights. The argument highlights that litigation has made substantial advancements in effecting systemic and policy changes, as well as in holding governments accountable. However, it also emphasizes the existence of potential obstacles, such as the failure to implement court orders, institutional barriers, and structural or procedural issues that require addressing in the pursuit of societal transformation. The research report concludes that whilst litigation can be seen as just one tactic in the repertoire for challenging societal and systemic injustices, it must however, be complemented with a broad range of strategies that include advocacy, grassroots movements, and policy reform, to address the complex underlying causes of social issues effect social change in South Africa and ZimbabweItem Intimate partner killings, criminal defences and the law(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Sithole, Patience ThandekaThe Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 in section 9 resoundingly guarantees the ‘equal protection and benefit of the law’ to all who are within the Republic. This undertaking is a crucial part of the South African democracy, and it is a manifestation of the law’s progression from being grossly and arbitrarily discriminatory, to becoming more inclusive and considerate of people from all walks of life. Contrarily though, a close analysis of some aspects of the law as it currently exists, shows that equality before the law is more aspirational than it is a reality. Women, in particular, are often overlooked and subjected to unfairness by the same law that, in theory, vows to protect them. The lack of accommodation of abused women who kill, by the private defence ground of justification, under criminal law is an apt example of the law’s marginalisation of women. This marginalisation manifests itself in the rigid approaches to cases of abused women who kill. The typical approach is the objective ‘reasonable person’ standard which is effective in most instances but has fallen short in cases of abuse, as such cases require consideration of the abused woman’s unique set of circumstances. This calls for a closer exploration of the specific and subjective factors of women’s experiences in order to comprehend the nature and extent of the abuse. Although expert witness evidence is admissible in these cases, the weight placed on such evidence is minimal, often leading to a miscarriage of justice. In view of that, this paper serves to play a dual role of re-identifying the inadequacies that continue to exist under the private defence laws in South Africa, while simultaneously providing recommendations on how the law can be developed to successfully address these inadequacies.Item Financial inclusion in South Africa: An analysis of the financial sector regulatory framework and proposals for reform(2018-09) Duma, Amanda; Kawadza, HerbertAbstract Not Available.Item Organisational Development Strategies to Mitigate Strike Action in Mining Companies in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tanyanyiwa, Olivia Tashinga; Matshabaphala, Manamela; Nixon, OcharaThis study delves into the challenges faced by the mining sector in South Africa due to frequent strike actions and explores various organizational development strategies that can be implemented to mitigate these occurrences. The research highlights the significance of effective communication, employee engagement, conflict resolution mechanisms, and leadership development in fostering a positive work environment and reducing the likelihood of strikes. By drawing on relevant literature, case studies, and expert opinions, the study aims to provide valuable insights for mining companies operating in South Africa to proactively address labor disputes and promote sustainable industrial relations. Through the implementation of strategic organizational development initiatives, mining companies can create a culture of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect among employees and management, ultimately leading to improved productivity and stability within the sector.Item Fintech Application for Unbanked Minimum Wage Earners in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Swart, Wynand Petrus Hendrik Nicolaas; Mogotsi, KeratiloeWith the high unemployment rate in South Africa, the greatest proportion of the salary earning population earns minimum wages. This is especially true within the farming and agriculture community, as the agriculture sector constitutes one of the largest contributors to the South African GDP as one of the main employers in the country. The farming sector is required to adhere to the minimum wage regulation determined by the South African government, where farm workers struggle to survive on the income that they receive, which many in this precarious financial circumstance opt to receive in cash. This business venture proposal sought to identify a solution in the form of a mobile fintech application specifically designed for minimum wage earners to use instead of a traditional banking account. The objective of venture is to help minimum wage earners to opt for a cashless method to receive their wages, enabling them to manage their finances without incurring banking fees that diminish the already limited amount on which they survive. The cost of the application is designed to be borne by their employers, the workers themselves, among others, making the product affordable and attractive, and ensuring a heterogenous revenue stream for the owner of the platform. A qualitative research methodology was used to explore the venture to identify areas of interest, as well as factors affecting the viability of such a business venture. Twenty-five interviews and questionnaires were completed through in-depth interviews with farm workers and owners. The findings have shown that there is a definite need for cheaper banking systems in this economic climate. The findings also suggested that what the product was initially intended to do would need to change to suite customer needs better, however, the pivot point created as part of a lean start- up strategy followed by the business team allowed for moving in different directions to create a successful venture. This business venture proposal can benefit from some further research in the areas of technological adoption and implementation.Item Challenges and opportunities faced by social entrepreneurs in Sekhukhune District Municipality, Limpopo(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Moipane, Phasha PharaneBackground: Social entrepreneurship is increasingly recognised as a powerful means to address pressing societal issues. However, a substantial gap exists in the literature regarding the challenges and opportunities faced by social entrepreneurs in the Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM) in Limpopo. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the specific hurdles and prospects encountered by social entrepreneurs within this geographically isolated context. Significance: Social entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in mitigating socio-economic challenges and fostering community development. Their contributions are especially significant in underserved areas like the SDM. Population and Sample Framework: Data for this study was collected through interviews, articles, reports, and websites. Out of 50 social entrepreneurs approached, 26 accepted to be interviewed, constituting the study's sample. Method of Data Collection and Analysis: Qualitative research methods were employed to conduct interviews with the 26 social entrepreneurs operating in the SDM of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The data collected was analysed to uncover the challenges and opportunities faced by these social entrepreneurs. Highlights of Results: The study's findings underscore the substantial obstacles faced by social entrepreneurs in this region, which include insufficient funding, restricted access to networks, and inadequate training. These challenges hinder their project financing and sustainability efforts. Conclusions and Recommendations: This study recommends expanding local economic development and municipal procurement policies to provide interest-free grants to emerging entrepreneurs in the region. Furthermore, it suggests that social entrepreneurs can overcome some of these challenges by harnessing support from customers and leveraging tender opportunities provided by the SDM and other entitiesItem Perceived impact of reimbursement policies on accessibility to PCSK9 inhibitors in the South African private healthcare sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ngobeni, Plossie; Totowa, JacquesThe South African private healthcare sector is confronted with the challenge of the limitation of adoption and access to proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i), a cholesterol-lowering medicine. At the heart of this is the complex nature of the reimbursement policies that are failing to yield favourable outcomes for patients, investors and practitioners alike. The long-term implications of these current medical reimbursement policies include resistance to medical cover, a decline in innovative drug adoption, a decline in optimal medical outcomes, decline in human capital development, loss in productivity, global drug companies pulling out of the South African market, and an extra financial burden to the patients. This study, employing a qualitative approach, aims to investigates barriers limiting adoption and access to PCSK9i in the South African private healthcare sector with a focal focus on reimbursement policies implemented by medical funders and insurances. The study also explores the market access and commercial success of PCSK9i hindered by reimbursement policies. Through semi-structured interviews as the main method of primary data collection, and using a thematic analysis, the explores the barriers, challenges and burdens that impede market access and entry for the PCSK9i and how this affects the economy, commercial success and stakeholders involved. The findings of this study indicate that reimbursement policies can have far-reaching impacts on businesses and the economy, affecting everything from cost management and innovation to employee satisfaction and market dynamics. Businesses must carefully navigate these policies to optimize their operations and remain competitive in the marketplace. Finally, the study proposes evidence-based recommendations for broadening accessibility to PSCK9i. These include encouraging medical funders to adopt a “risk-sharing” concept, value-based healthcare, patient advocacy groups, and review single exit pricing regulations. The significance of these recommendations is their potential to aid policy makers and other important stakeholders in decision making and ensuring access to the most deserving hypercholesteremia population.