Browsing by Author "Jagganath, Gerelene."

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An evaluation of South Africa's post-apartheid foreign policy towards peacekeeping in Southern African Development Community (SADC): case study of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
(2020) Faye, Nwabisa Felicia Ziyanda.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
The promotion of peace and stability in the SADC region is the key component of South Africa's foreign policy in the post - apartheid era. The White Paper on South Africa's foreign policy, states that, South Africa accords a central importance to its immediate African neighborhood and the African continent. Therefore, South Africa using its post - apartheid foreign policy should make means to intervene as DRC remains in the barriers of intrastate wars after almost half century of colonialism. A two-way strategy has been adopted by South Africa to deal with Congolese conflict including military and mediation processes. The main problem that South Africa encountered in the management and resolution of the Congolese conflict was the absence of an organizational structure for security mechanism at the time of the conflict and this has led to ad hoc arrangements. This study seeks to reveal whether the role of South Africa in the DRC conflict was successful or not. South Africa needs to address issues of financial and logistical weakness and the lack of political consensus among leaders on collective security norms and practices. In addition, there has been a need for DRC to take full responsibility for its own domestic problems, so that South Africa does not concern itself with the internal affairs of its member state, unless invited to do so by the concerned state. The research was conducted using a qualitative research approach. The study draws heavily on the data gathered from two research schedules (that included DIRCO officials and Academics). In-depth interviews and discussions from the 30 participants were adopted and the study was guided by Rupesinghe (1996) theory of conflict resolution. The study found that South Africa in using its post-apartheid foreign policy played a prominent role as the intermediary facilitator and guarantor of DRC peace process. Under President Mbeki administration the intentions of the intervention in DRC were clear not only on policy but also in action whereas under Zuma's administration intervention in the DRC peacekeeping quest was vague and confused.
An exploration of physical violence at a secondary school in Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2019) Ngcobo, Lungelo.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
Over the past years scholarly authors have focused on school violence in general with its specific focus to the contributing factors. However, studies have ignored to look physical violence as a specific phenomenon with regards to learner on learner physical violence in secondary school. The study was aimed to explore perceptions, experiences on physical violence and to give a better understanding of contributing factors to physical violence at two selected high schools with particular reference to those who witnessed violence as well as those who were victims of physical violence within the school environment. Findings have shown that a school does not exist in a vacuum but is part of the broader society in which it is situated. Moreover, a school that is situated in community that is plagued in high rates of violence is more probable to experience incidents of school physical violence. Learners suffer from a number of different psychological and physical effects due to their exposure to violence on a regular basis. This research was conducted at Intshisekelo Secondary School in the Inanda area in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. Inanda is well known for community violence and the high rates of crime in the area. Reportedly, many learners in this school exhibit behavioural problems that are, in particular, due to that they are exposed to the physical violence in their community in which they live.
Exploring policy implementation: the care dependency grant.
(2020) Khumalo, Amanda Nonhlanhla Thathakahle.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
The White Paper for Social Welfare of 1997 was created in order to address past inequalities. The main goal was to ensure that all citizens are provided with the equal chance of a better standard of living. The White Paper then gave rise to the Social Assistance Act 13 of 2004 in order to make provisions for social assistance for the most vulnerable groups in society, such as the elderly and persons with disabilities. The Social Assistance Act 13 of 2004 covers the disability grant, the care dependency grant, the child support grant, the foster care grant, war veterans grant, old person's grant, as well as relief of social distress. This legislation was then supported by other legislations such as the South African Social Security Agency Act, then gave rise to SASSA which is an agency that is responsible for implementing these grants. The purpose of the study was to explore policy implementation in relation to the care dependency grant. In order to achieve this, the study utilized the systematic approach and secondary data collection techniques from previous studies in order to establish the efficacy of the government's response to the needs of children with disabilities. Policy implementation plays a crucial role in the policy process. There are certain conditions that need to be met so that the policy objectives are implemented successfully. However, the findings suggest that the current disability policy is not sufficiently implemented since these conditions are not met. Some crucial challenges faced here range from failing to align policies between departments to the lack of human resources within government; this subsequently denies a high number of children with disabilities their right to social protection.
From indentureship to transnationalism : professional Indian women in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2008) Jagganath, Gerelene.; Anand, Singh.
The study details the transnational migrations of a sample of professional Indian women from Durban, KwaZulu Natal within the context of their historical transition from indentureship to transnationalism, and their changing social identities. The study makes a contribution towards contemporary interest in the subject of gender and migration in the 21st century. As the Indian and Chinese diasporas expand in size through knowledge workers and investments their increased visibility in countries throughout the world has led to a commensurate level of interest in resettlement and identity building. This dissertation deals specifically with Indian women in the South African diaspora and their transnational links with first world nations, particularly the United Kingdom. Chapter One is a brief history of Indian women in South Africa since their arrival as indentured labourers in 1860. It provides glimpses into their roles as mothers, wives and daughters in the patriarchal Indian household and their eventual transition into the professions. Chapter Two problematizes migration research in South Africa based on the inadequacy of national databases, specifically with regard to the invisibility of racial, gendered and occupational data pertinent to the context of international skills and professional migration. Chapters Three and Four deal with the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the fieldwork conducted as well as the research experiences and challenges of the anthropologist. Chapter Five, Six and Seven form the core ethnographic analysis of the women transnationals as single, married, divorced and widowed professionals. The rising number of Indian women transnationals of varying professional backgrounds, marital statuses and age groups leaving Durban since 1994 has led to the rapid transformation of the conservative Indian household. Their migration to first world destinations overseas signifies the impact of globalizing forces on the demand for professional skills from developing nations such as South Africa, as well as the increasing desire of the women to seek security, career advancement and independence in social spaces that are less repressive and more financially rewarding. Chapter Eight concludes the study by showing how the women are agents in their own emancipation and how identities within the duality of transnational migration have become a fluctuating terrain of negotiation and reconfiguration in their personal relationships and social practices.
Institutional capacities and the challenges of continental integration: a critical study of the African Union Commission as an integrative tool.
(2018) Medoye, Danile Taye.; Jagganath, Gerelene.; Ndlovu, Joram.
This study sought out to critically examine the African Union Commission (AUC) as an integrative tool in the context of institutional capacities and the challenges of continental integration. This study is an exploratory attempt to determine the capacity of the African Union Commission (AUC) as an organ of the African Union (AU) in facilitating the integration aspirations of African leaders on the continent. Considered a strategic organ of the AU, this study sought to examine the integrative capacity of the AUC, and its ability to sensitise not only African leaders, but also the rich and wealthy Africans notably in the private sector to pool resources together to catalyze the efforts towards integration of the continent. It is worth repeating that the AUC is one of the organs of the African Union (AU) which conducts the administrative affairs of the continental organization. The study was informed by the need to contexualise the dynamism exhibited by the leadership direction of the outgoing Chairperson of the Commission (at the time of this research), Her Excellency, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma wherein considerable attention was drawn to the activities of the AU. The AUC’s engagements with the RECs and its reaching out to both private individuals and institutions for support, has significantly put African affairs in the limelight. To achieve the aim of the study, the researcher drew strength from accessed literature specifically on related studies to be able to provide a justification for the study, and this was further completed with processed data generated from fieldwork. The study employed the qualitative research paradigm in the generation of data and for analysis based on the context and focus of the study. In concluding the study, the researcher made some averments as follows - Firstly, and in reaction to research question one which sought to interrogate the capacity of the African Union Commission (AUC) to facilitate integration agenda of the organization, the researcher avers that the AUC being the implementing organ of the AU’s programmes can deliver more effectively on its mandate if empowered appropriately. Secondly, the study avers that the challenges of corruption, overlapping membership, sit-tightism syndrome, and lack of commitment by African leaders among others, should be addressed and tackled with unwavering commitment and willingness for the aspiration of integration to be fully realized. Thirdly, on whether the sub-regional bodies can provide a platform for the integration agenda of the continent, the researcher contends that the level of successes recorded within each of the regional economic communities is an indication that such can be replicated on the continent. Fourthly, the preponderance of views expressed by the study participants on whether the international environment can or does influence integration efforts in Africa led the researcher to agree less. Fifthly, the researcher aligns with the view by a majority of the respondents to the effect that there is no famine of policies, treaties, protocols and agreements aimed at leading Africa to its desired level of development. This study views the AUC as an organ that plays an interventionist role through policy advocacy which proposes and recommends policies and programmes for the consideration of African leaders during their plenary sessions towards pursuing their integrative goals. The study therefore submits that, if accorded a near-supranational status, the AUC has the potency to galvanise resources and support to facilitate the much desired integration of the African continent.
Perceptions of the Lindelani community on legalising cannabis for medical purposes in South Africa.
(2019) Ngcobo, Mbongeni Eugene.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
Despite the existing criminal sanctions attached to cannabis growth and use, it remains by far the most consumed and trafficked drug globally. Regulating and controlling cannabis has been a considerable challenge in South Africa due to its abundance and easy access. The call for legalising cannabis for medicinal purposes in South Africa has been growing, as is the case globally, with many reported benefits for a range of diseases and health conditions. The recent High Court ruling that cannabis be allowed for personal use marks a turning point towards its status in South Africa. Aim and objectives: This research aimed to examine public perceptions on the effect of legalising medical cannabis in South Africa on vulnerable populations. The study intends to examine potential consequences of the legalisation, focusing mainly on the influence that the legalisation would have on small poor communities. Method: This cross-sectional study explored the personal perspectives of 40 poor community residents aged 18 – 35 through qualitative interviews who were conveniently selected. They were asked about how they thought the legalisation of cannabis for medical purposes would impact on their communities. Results: The participants felt that cannabis legalisation will have more of a negative implication through its increased illegal position consumption and would result in an increase in crimes within small communities. Its ready availability is already associated with the country’s high crime rate, and it is regarded as a gateway drug to other more addictive substances. While some felt that it would create job and business opportunities, this would require adequate control and regulation. Some participants indicated that it was already used for medicinal purposes by traditional healers and were not familiar with its formulation for commercial purposes. Discussion: There were variations in their perceptions on how such changes in the legislation will impact on small communities, with specific concerns about how crime will be affected in South Africa. This study argues that decisions to change policy must be founded on a consideration of the evidence on the risks and benefits associated with such amendments to individuals and the broader society. It is important to examine and understand these changes in order to have appreciate the effects that medical Cannabis legalisation might have on an array of problems, including drug markets. Should cannabis be legalised for medical purposes in South Africa, it needs to occur with caution, as this it might exacerbate the already overwhelming cannabis abuse and further influence drugs related offences.
Perceptions of “spiritually transmitted diseases” within the Zulu community of KZN, Pietermaritzburg, uMgungundlovu District.
(2022) Mthethwa, Silindile Nobuhle.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
People worldwide have different cultural and spiritual beliefs that influence how they perceive disease or an illness. Such perceptions stem from cultural forces and individual experiences. Cross-culturally, medical anthropologists examine health, healing, disorders and treatments. Understanding health from a cultural perspective proves that illnesses/ diseases are not only physical but also social and spiritual. It is, therefore, necessary to understand these perspectives when aiming for culturally appropriate and sustainable interventions. Medical anthropologists are not only interested in studying diseases and illnesses but also in those that are culturebound. The lack of anthropological research on spiritual diseases from AmaZulu cultural perspective has influenced this research. This is not to claim that AmaZulu people in KwaZulu- Natal are a homogenous group with similar experiences, especially concerning spiritually transmitted diseases. However, in the researcher’s experience, this phenomenon is uncommon among AmaZulu adults in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This research aims to describe and document perceptions and experiences of these “spiritually transmitted diseases” (SpTD’s) in a local AmaZulu community. A general conclusion is that SpTD’s are culture-bound even though some symptoms are like medical conditions that we know. This research also adds that a culture-bound disorder does not necessarily have to be spiritually transmitted. A spiritually transmitted disease can be or appear as a sexually transmitted disease. These spiritual distresses are associated with “ubumnyama”, which is said to be contagious to a certain extent, especially through sexual intercourse. They are also believed to make an existing medical condition worse. Previous studies have indicated that 80% of the population in African countries uses traditional medicine to maintain good health and treat illnesses and diseases. In the documentation of these perceived spiritual diseases, this dissertation includes the healing processes and unpacks the associated myths. The researcher also refers to allopathic medication not to disregard but to highlight parallel health systems with similar concepts (symptoms) but different healing processes. This research had its challenges and limitations. There is room for further research with a larger sample.
Police perceptions on suicide amongst Durban Metro Police service in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2016) Khuzwayo, Eric Mandla.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
This study analyses the perceptions of police suicide in the Durban Metro Police Service (DMPS). The research was necessitated by the increasing police suicide and suicide attempt rates within this municipality. Emile Durkheim’s theory of suicide was used in the study to assist in the identification of the causes and factors of police suicide. Conceptualization was based on the existing legislative, theoretical and conceptual perspectives that apply to suicide. These were drawn from various sources to provide insight into police suicide in South Africa. The nature of the study necessitated the use of interviews, literature review and focus group discussions in a qualitative research design to elicit information from the participants in the DMPS. The study established that within the DMPS, police suicide was caused by both personal and work-related issues such as working night shifts, availability of fire arms as well as the police culture which encourages officials to be masters of their own destinies. Such cultures constrain officials from communicating their problems, hence they commit suicide. The important role of the Suicide Prevention Workshop, the social workers and management was also revealed as important for reducing suicide rates within the DMPS. In view of the results, it is recommended that the nature of the working relationship amongst police management and employees be strengthened in order to create an environment of trust and openness within the department. Management should be on the lead in the development of this relationship. It is also important that the State intervene in the provision of training with regard to suicide. Management (both managers and supervisors) need to be given the first prioritize in the undertaking of such programmes so that they can be able to motivate their subordinates to undergo the same training. Training is also good for management in that managers and supervisors will be able to identify their troubled subordinates and then encourage their subordinates to attend the workshops. Some Suicide Prevention Workshops need to be conducted on a monthly basis to try and curb the suicide rate within the police department. Both the department and the State must invest resources in the development of the workshops. Future research need to focus on determining the reasons why officers despise attending workshops. It is also essential to explore the manner and the approach use by DMPS management in referring troubled officers for assistance. More importantly, research is needed in exploring the perceptions of subordinates concerning their managers and the services rendered by the Employee Assistance Services (EAS).
Pub[l]ic perception on proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Abuja, Nigeria: implications for peace and security.
(2018) Ola, Adegboyega Adedolapo.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
Small arms, having the attributes of being readily available and easy to use, have been the primary tool of the terrorist attacks in every part of the world including those of Abuja, Nigeria. Wide availability, accumulation and illegal flow of small arms tends to escalate conflict, terrorism and insecurity; and hinder development, social stability and good governance. The main objective of the study was to examine public perception on proliferation of small arms and light weapons and it’s the impact on peace and security in Abuja, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to examine the factors that stimulate the proliferation of small arms and light weapon in Abuja, Nigeria; examine the relationship between small arms, terrorism and insecurity; assess the nature of the threat posed to peace and security in Abuja, Nigeria; examine the strategic options that were utilised by the Nigerian security sector to enhance peace and security in Abuja, Nigeria. The study adopted a mixed method research approach involving a descriptive survey design. A sampling of 113 and 20 respondents was adopted quantitatively and qualitatively in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). The major findings were that: (i) the ineffective control of small arms led to their proliferation, accessibility and availability in the possession of unauthorised users in Abuja, Nigeria causing various terrorist attacks and great havoc in the city; (ii) rogue military and security personnel aided the proliferation of weapons to the possession of illicit users; (iii) lack of a national database and registration of small arms and light weapons, along with the absence of an effective marking, recording and tracing system for SALW also contributed largely to the proliferation of small arms; (iv) there is a positive correlation between the availability of small arms and terrorist attacks, it was also discovered that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons is a major cause of terrorism in Abuja; and (v) terrorism is a major factor that threatens peace and security in Abuja, which led to the death of many civilians and loss of properties. Based on the findings, it was recommended that: (i) the Nigerian government should increase the strength of the regulating agencies in charge of the Nigerian borders such as the Nigerian Customs Service, Nigerian Immigration, Nigerian Police, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and other security forces, which should be provided with adequate and functional modern technical equipment for arms detection; (ii) establish an arms bearing national body or agency that will monitor and guard the stockpile, diversion and misuse of small arms and light weapons in the country; (iii) the 1959 Nigeria Fire Act should be reviewed and amended in accordance with the Economic and Community of West African State Convention (ECOWAS) and the United Nations Programme of Action to prevent and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects (UNPoA); (iv) the Nigerian government should seek assistance and cooperate with foreign countries and relevant agencies towards resolving the issue of illegal arms trade into the country in order to reduce and control the problem of small arms proliferation; (v) the civil society groups should cooperate better with the government in terms of arms control and the fight against illicit arms.
Understanding illness in a local community: an exploration of the socio-cultural impacts of hypertension in patients and their families in Swayimana Location, KwaZulu- Natal.
(2024) Sishi, Nqobile Princess.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
No abstract available.