Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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    Evaluation of the civilian intelligence service oversight model: A South African perspective
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Radebe, Osiel Bongani; Van Nieuwkerk, Antoni
    Intelligence serves as a cornerstone of state security, fulfilling a vital role in the protection of national interests and guarding against threats. Despite its secretive nature, intelligence operations and mandates are entrusted with significant statutory powers across nations to uphold state security. To ensure the rule of law and the protection of citizens' civil rights, robust governance frameworks are imperative. This research seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of South Africa's civilian intelligence oversight system post-1994. Central to this evaluation are the regulatory and institutional arrangements governing intelligence services and officials. Drawing upon governance principles encompassing oversight, transparency, accountability, and democratic control; the study also explores institutional norms and standards. Furthermore, it explores the potential impact of aligning societal and constitutional values with regulatory and oversight mechanisms. Research results indicate weaknesses in the existing civilian intelligence oversight model. This highlights inadequacies in holding intelligence services and officials accountable. Consequently, the research advocates for reforming the civilian intelligence oversight system. Emphasis must be placed on reviewing legal frameworks, oversight institutions and mechanisms, and procedural measures to enhance transparency and accountability. Rather than a complete overhaul, the research recommends targeted improvements to existing mechanisms. Moreover, the study underscores the need for better integration of societal and constitutional values into intelligence oversight arrangements. Aligning these values with regulatory frameworks is essential to ensuring coherence and efficacy in governance practices.
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    The post-1994 land reform prism to interrogate development planning in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Molokwane, Masibane John; T.K, Pooe
    The Republic of South Africa’s post-1994 government has embarked on developing numerous policies, legislations, and in 2011, a National Development Plan to advance its economic development trajectory. Yet, despite the various policies, plans and legislations, unmanageable levels of poverty, inequality, and unemployment continue to persist and, in certain areas, increased. The post-1994 government, in line with developed policies and legislations, has sought to utilise re-industrialisation, manufacturing, small business development, mining, and other such economic drivers. While land reform has featured in various policies post-1994, it has not been elevated and used as a central means in advancing development planning and development to address socio-economic challenges. This study, therefore, took a unique approach, unlike previous studies examining land reform in the context of development planning and development. The study’s unique approach was informed by the instrumentality of land reform in advancing development planning and catalysing industrialisation in selected Asian States. This study aimed to address the dearth of literature that prioritises and focuses on the instrumentality of land in development and the inability of the post-1994 South African land reform approach to view land as a development tool. An interpretive sequential mixed qualitative methods study was employed to theorise how development planning can be modelled to feature a re-shaped and re-planned land reform in a development plan. The result of this approach was to present a nuanced contribution to knowledge in the field of development planning, namely a framework that elevates land reform as a central means of development for South Africa’s problematic re-industrialisation.
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    Impact of mega astronomy infrastructure projects on development in the rural Northern Cape, South Africa
    (2024) Mokhohlane, Daniel Manama; Qobo, Mzukisi
    This study investigates the impact of mega astronomy infrastructure projects on development in rural Northern Cape, South Africa. The Northern Cape province especially Kareeberg Local and Karoo Hoogland Local Municipalities has become a hub for astronomy research due to its clear skies and low light pollution, attracting significant investments in mega astronomy infrastructure projects such as the MeerKAT and the Southern African Large Telescope among others. There is also an expectation from local communities that these projects should assist in improving development in those communities. This is the paradox the study investigates. That is so because those communities earmarked for mega astronomy infrastructure projects are preserved and protected by legislation against polluting activities i.e., too much lighting, a lot of radio frequency, too much dust, and smoke, which could be detrimental to radio and optical astronomy. Therefore, this research assesses the development impact of these projects with respect to infrastructure development, job creation, education, tourism and perceptions of people living around those projects. The study discusses the paradox of using mega astronomy infrastructure projects for rural and socioeconomic development. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys, interviews, observations and data analysis, to gather, analyse and synthesise data from residents, project stakeholders, and government officials. A new framework for the Impact of Mega Astronomy Infrastructure projects for the Development of Rural Areas was developed. This framework could be useful in dealing with the persisting dissonance and paradox in assessing mega astronomy infrastructure projects' impact on rural development. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the role of mega astronomy infrastructure projects in assessing and promoting sustainable development in rural areas and informing future policy decisions and investment strategies in the rural Northern Cape in South Africa.
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    A social-ecological perspective on the roles of YOLO facilitators
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) van Rooyen, Christofer; Cairns, Murray
    In South Africa, young people between the ages of 15 and 24 years face an elevated risk of contracting HIV due to various factors associated with high-risk practices such as engaging in unsafe sexual practices. The Department of Social Development implemented the “You Only Live Once” (YOLO) community-based HIV prevention programme. YOLO aims to reduce risky sexual behaviour among the youth. YOLO employs facilitators to render a structured programme with information on self-care, assertiveness, HIV treatment and adherence support, peer pressure and related content. The YOLO programme design subscribed to the social-ecological model focusing on children and youth. Several research studies used the social-ecological model to investigate YOLO participants (youth and children). However, the literature has limited exploration of how the interplay among individual, interpersonal and community levels influences the role of YOLO facilitators. The study aims to explore the roles of the YOLO facilitators from the lens of the social-ecological model. the research allows Further, the research allows YOLO facilitators to describe their individual, interpersonal and community roles. The study explores the interplay between the multiple levels of the social-ecological model and the influences on the role of the YOLO facilitators. The research site of the not-for-profit organisation (NPO) was in the City of Matlosana, previously known as Klerksdorp. According to the literature, the community in this area faces several challenges, including high levels of HIV, poor access to municipal health services, unprecedented high levels of youth unemployment and issues with violence and substance abuse. The YOLO facilitators who worked within the NPO reside in the area and have grown up in similar conditions, which gave them a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges faced by those whom they are trying to help. The research aimed to describe the YOLO facilitators from the perspective of the social-ecological model. The research recruited participants through the non-probability sampling methods. The method limits the researcher's biases in the selection process. Ten YOLO facilitators participated in the research. The YOLO facilitators represented various age groups, races, genders, skill sets and experiences in the field. The research used descriptive qualitative research methodology. The methodology employed a qualitative, semi-structured interview to collect data from 10 YOLO facilitators. The study employed the thematic data analysis method and identified several sub-themes and thesis themes from the data. The researcher used the social-ecological model to describe the micro, meso and micro-level themes. Further, the researcher followed a system approach and described the interactions between the micro, meso and macro systems. The University of Witwatersrand granted ethical clearance to the research. The researcher adhered to the ethical standard as part of the study. The National Department of Social Development and the NPO Board granted permission to conduct the research. The researcher explained their positionality and the influences on the research outcome. v The study found that YOLO facilitators function as “wounded healers”. The researcher discussed the risk of being a wounded healer in the context of the study. The researcher recommends that it is essential to ensure that YOLO facilitators are aware of potential risks and that NPOs provide a safe and supportive environment to mitigate them. YOLO facilitators’ personal experiences can undoubtedly assist them in developing empathy and sympathy, but it was essential to strike a balance between personal growth and personal harm
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    Emergency housing provision in the city of Johannesburg
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Twala, Baone Samukele
    This research presents a qualitative case study into the City of Johannesburg’s implementation of emergency housing within the context of South Africa’s decentralised development goals. The study explores the challenges faced by local governments, particularly the City of Johannesburg, in their service delivery responsibilities. It examines the adoption of decentralised development in the political and administrative spheres of local government and the role of institutions like SALGA and COGTA in supporting local governments. The research also investigates the struggles of municipalities in applying developmental themes of inclusivity, accountability, and political and social change. The backdrop of the study is the persisting housing backlog and the impact of the failures of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP). The research highlights the complexities of providing emergency housing and temporary accommodation in the face of rapid urbanisation, poverty, and the legacy of apartheid spatial planning and housing policies. The study utilises a case study research methodology to scrutinise the political and administrative implementation of developmental local government, their adoption of developmental theories, the opportunities of intergovernmental relations, and the impact on service delivery. The goal is to contribute to a better understanding of the complexities of decentralisation in South Africa and provide insights that could enhance the quality of service delivery, particularly in the provision of emergency housing and temporary accommodation. There is a need to strengthen political and social change; and inclusivity in the City through improving engagement with communities and using resources to find more sustainable ways, in line with the capability and the human rights-based approach, to provide the temporary housing services. Implementing planned community engagement in areas where people are most vulnerable to eviction and emergencies that would require their relocation to temporary emergency accommodation or emergency housing
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    Institutional factors enhancing and affecting service delivery in Lekwa Local Municipality
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tsotetsi, Boitumelo; Phophiwa, Nedson
    The discourse surrounding South African local governments often highlights deficiencies in the efficient and effective delivery of basic social services. This study was motivated by the absence of viable solutions to the persistent challenges facing service delivery in local municipalities, and the Lekwa Local Municipality was no exception. Situated in the Mpumalanga Province, the Lekwa Local Municipality serves as a compelling case study to explore the institutional challenges that both enhance and hinder service delivery. The municipality has grappled with significant administrative instability and a lack of political oversight. Consequently, its capacity to deliver services has been severely compromised. These institutional challenges have manifested in various forms, including bureaucratic inefficiencies, inadequate resource allocation, and a lack of strategic planning and implementation. As a result, the municipality has struggled to meet the needs of its residents and address pressing socio-economic issues within its jurisdiction. By examining the institutional factors contributing to these challenges, this study seeks to provide valuable insights into the complexities of service delivery in local government settings. By understanding the root causes of these issues, policymakers, stakeholders, and community members can work towards implementing targeted interventions to improve governance processes, enhance accountability mechanisms, and ultimately, strengthen the capacity of local municipalities to deliver essential services to their constituents. The Lekwa Local Municipality has witnessed unrest and protest, due to poor service delivery. The research employed a qualitative approach, utilizing a non-probability purposive sampling technique to select fourteen participants. This method was chosen deliberately to ensure that participants possessed relevant insights and experiences related to the research topic. Data collection was conducted through face-to-face semi-structured interviews, allowing for in- depth exploration of participants' perspectives, experiences, and opinions. The study's findings shed light on persistent challenges within the Lekwa Local Municipality despite the introduction of new leadership initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery. A critical issue identified is the dire lack of leadership at both the political and administrative levels, resulting in a vacuum of oversight and accountability. This lack of effective leadership v has allowed self-interest and expediency to prevail, undermining the municipality's ability to fulfil its mandate. The study concludes by stating findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the Lekwa Local Municipality to address the root causes of poor service delivery. This includes strengthening leadership and accountability mechanisms, implementing transparent and accountable governance practices, and mobilizing resources effectively to ensure the delivery of quality services to residents. Only through concerted efforts to address these challenges can the municipality begin to regain the trust and confidence of its constituents and achieve meaningful improvements in service delivery outcomes.
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    The role of the Gauteng Government in implementing township economic development
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Singo, Livhuwani; Motsepe, Dikgang
    In Gauteng Province, the effective execution of township economic development policy initiatives continues to be a crucial policy concern. The aim of this exploratory study was to determine the extent to which government plays a role in successfully implementing township economic development initiatives and in successfully supporting township businesses' economic development to ensure the success of the township economy. Throughout the inquiry, primary and secondary data sources were explored for the investigation. Semi-structured interviews were utilised to gather data for the study to obtain a thorough knowledge of the experiences of public servants working for state agencies that are accountable for and involved in executing the Act. The research approach employed in the study was qualitative. The study verified that supporting township economic growth is a collaborative, multi-agency endeavour including municipal, provincial, federal, and other government agencies in addition to private partners. The government created a comprehensive incentive and tax package. This implies that rather than being unduly involved in the growth of industries and businesses, the government should concentrate more on creating industrial and economic regulatory policies targeted for township economic development. Even though the report shows that the government is still having difficulty forcing national and international firms to carry out strategic initiatives and undertake policy actions for township development. The interview's results are consistent with the claim that strong partnerships between the public and private sectors as well as community organisations have made integrated strategic planning important for executing township economic development initiatives. The research report makes suggestions for how to better execute TEDA programmes in Gauteng's Ekurhuleni Municipalit
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    Evidence-based management use in implementing indigent programme exit strategy in the city of Tshwane municipality
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Setwaba, Diniko Piet; Kithatu-Kiwekete, Angelita
    It is often said that South Africa has many good policies but often suffers from implementation, the City of Tshwane Metro Municipality (CTMM) indigent programme seems to be one such intervention. The purpose of this research was to explore the use of evaluation evidence compared to other sources of evidence in managing the implementation of the indigent exit strategy of the CTMM. Interviews were conducted with twenty (20) participants and document analysis was also conducted to assess trends in the management of the indigent programme exit strategy. The study revealed that despite the legislative mandate for the CTMM Indigent programme, it is not aligned with the National Indigent Framework, leading to improper implementation of its exit strategy. Beneficiaries perceived the programme as primarily targeting pensioners and had a limited understanding of other services offered through partnerships. The study established that there are no proper guidelines for exiting households, indicating inadequate implementation procedures. Household empowerment through skills development was not prioritised and the mismanagement of partnerships exacerbates the problem. It was also discovered that CTMM relies heavily on performance reporting information, and no evaluations are done, leading to superficial analysis and reliance on administrative data for decision-making and accountability efforts.
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    The exploration of accountability frameworks for sewage works management at the City of Mbombela LocalMunicipality
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Selepe, Mamaropeng Marcus; Muller, Mike
    This study used the City of Mbombela Local Municipality as a case study to investigate how accountability mechanisms are implemented for wastewater treatment works. Wastewater treatment works generally perform poorly and discharge poor quality effluent into our water resources causing pollution and possible health effects. The City of Mbombela Local Municipality own eight wastewater treatment works. The Green Drop progress report for 2023 showed that five of the wastewater treatment works which are managed by the municipality perform poorly compared to the three which are manged by the municipal water services provider, Silulumanzi. The purpose of the study was to determine what accountability challenges are experienced by those assigned the function of managing wastewater treatment works at the City of Mbombela Local Municipality. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and collected data through semi-structured interviews. The results of this study show that the City of Mbombela Local Municipality does not have formal accountability mechanisms in place to hold those assigned the responsibility of managing wastewater treatment works accountable for the performance thereof. This study has revealed the absence of accountability as a possible contributor to the resultant poor performance of wastewater treatment at the City of Mbombela Local Municipality. The findings of the study could inform practice and offer insights about practices in the wastewater management business. It is recommended that municipal managers include the performance of wastewater treatment works as a performance indicator in their annual performance plans as well as in performance agreements of officials responsible for the management of wastewater treatment works. This will enable municipal managers to have a handle on the performance and compliance of wastewater treatment works as these will be reported at the required frequency and subjected to appropriate scrutiny. It is further recommended that a follow up study be conducted to compare accountability mechanisms for wastewater treatment works managed by municipalities against those managed by independent water service providers.
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    Investigating Non-Medical Ethics Committee Monitoring Approaches and its Effectiveness
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Schoeman, Shaun; Blaser-Mapitsa, Caitlin
    Ethics committee monitoring aims to ensure that research participants are protected throughout the research process and to ensure that research is conducted ethically. This study investigates monitoring approaches used by non-medical ethics committees within South Africa in a climate of limited resources and the relationship with the governing guidelines. The study further investigates the current monitoring approaches that are used and how effective these are in relation to participant protection. The study found that the current monitoring approaches used by non-medical ethics committees are passive as opposed to active. Non-medical ethics committees face challenges such as limited resources, funding, training, and ineffective guidelines that hinder their ability to monitor more effectively. The governing monitoring guidelines for registered ethics committees are premised on medical ethics, which is not fit the purpose of non-medical ethics committee monitoring. The study proposes adjustments to these governing guidelines, taking limited resources and non-medical nuances into consideration. The study further suggests that passive monitoring be redefined to include more effective methods than just annual progress reporting. These methods include participant meetings or citizen monitoring to ensure that participants are protected, and that research is conducted ethically.