Masters Degrees (Public Administration)

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Grievance and disciplinary procedures at the local government level.
(1992) Maharaj, Pamela.; Singh, Deoram.; Moodley, Sathiasiven.
No abstract available.
The role of organised labour in dispute resolution in the eThekwini Municipality.
(2010) Pakkiri, Vadival.; Subban, Mogesperie.
This research expounds on the impact of Organised Labour in Dispute Resolution at eThekwini Municipality. The research will identify the positive and negative aspects of the stakeholders within the environment of labour relations. The necessity of this research is that very little research has been conducted in the dispute resolution environment at eThekwini Municipality. In any labour contract, there will always be disputes between the stakeholders concerned. In some instances, the conclusion of the dispute is a win-win situation or winner takes all. In the open market, the engaging of the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration is the forum available to resolve disputes. In the local government sector, however, organised labour caters for the needs of its members by taking their grievances to the bargaining council under the auspices of the South African Local Government Bargaining Council. Local government is the sphere that is closest to the public at which delivery of services takes place. The manner in which this is conducted depends largely on the Municipality's institutional capacity. The institutional capacity also influences its regulatory role. The co-operative governance approach encourages multiple stakeholder arrangements to deal with labour relations issues. These arrangements will provide an illustration of the role of various stakeholders in achieving peace and harmony in the workplace. Organised Labour will always have a profound effect on the economy, politics and social services. Its contribution and development to society is highly influential and ensures its recognition. The challenge is to develop systems and procedures that will serve the labour relations environment. This research will set out to explore the dispute resolution mechanism that exists currently, and the effect it has in the Municipality. In this way there will be a definitive significance on the approach to formalise the roles employed by management and organised labour.
Water service delivery in eThekwini municipality: perceptions and processes in Johanna/Boxwood Road informal settlement.
(2016) Malakoana, Mandla Saul.; Qwabe, Bongani Reginald.
Government is expected by its citizens to deliver services with the highest degree of quality and of suitable standards. This results in citizens’ satisfaction and positive perceptions of their government. Any failure of government to meet citizens’ expectations results in dissatisfaction and protests. In line with this assertion, the study primarily aimed at analysing the perceptions of the Johanna/Boxwood Road Informal Settlement’s dwellers, in relation to the provision of water services by the eThekwini Municipality. It also sought to propose policy recommendations at a strategic level in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to advance quality waterservice delivery beyond 2015. The study was grounded on the Expectation-Perception and Core- Value theories. The two theories centre their perspectives on the customer’s view and on the ethos of customer service. These aspects accentuate the essence of organisations, including government, measuring the perceptions and expectations of customers. Their constructs are premised on reliability, assurance, tangibility, empathy, and responsiveness when services are delivered. One hundred units of analysis were drawn as the sample from the Johanna/Boxwood Road Informal Settlement, using a random sampling technique for the quantitative research method. Fifteen senior officials were interviewed from eThekwini Municipality’s Water and Sanitation Unit, deploying the qualitative research method. The data collected was analysed using SPSS Version 23 for the quantitative research method, and Nvivo Version 10 for the qualitative research method. A huge percentage of the Johanna/Boxwood Road Informal Settlement dwellers surveyed believed that the quality of water delivered by eThekwini Municipality was high, and the delivery of water was reliable. They further asserted that the municipality was empathetic when delivering water services for them, expressing confidence in it. However, the results also stressed the importance of developing a policy that would be responsive to the needs of the citizens, and which would positively affect the lives of the common people. The findings further underscored the essence of enhancing communication between the municipality and the community when services such as water were delivered. The monitoring and evaluation tools were also identified by the study as being critical to measuring the progress when delivering services, particularly water. The major recommendations of the study are that: 1) eThekwini Municipality should improve communication with the community, 2) eThekwini Municipality should develop response strategies on how to efficiently deliver water services to areas, such as Johanna/Boxwood Road Informal Settlement, 3) more work needs to be done in order to understand how the water is collected and stored at household level, 4) more relationship building with the community should be undertaken by eThekwini Municipality, and 5) eThekwini Municipality should evaluate uts incentive programme at lower levels in order to encourage more productivity. Collectively, the recommendations of the study suggest the transformation of developmental local government, such as eThekwini Municipality in improving service delivery and good governance. This serves to fulfil the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) espoused by the United Nations, 2015, in terms of Goal 6 which places emphasis on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation to all by 2030. The model proposed in the last chapter of the dissertation should therefore be adopted to enhance water delivery and management at local government level.
Equitable share formula and fiscal capacity in municipalities with particular reference to Msunduzi Municipality.
(2015) Mpumela, Xolile.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The apartheid regime left its imprint on South Africa's municipalities with systematic under-investment in municipal infrastructure in black areas. Deprivation of communities with limited access to basic services including water, sanitation, refuse collection and roads created skewed settlement patterns as one of ‘enduring planned and deliberate’ poverty. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 established ‘wall-to-wall’ local government with municipalities to address past inequalities. There was no equally corresponding increase in the tax base of communities within municipalities. As a result, they are faced with fiscal imbalances in raising adequate funds to meet mandated functions with municipalities heavily dependent on intergovernmental transfers from national government. Twenty one years into democracy, municipalities continue facing infrastructural disparities evidenced by significant increases in service delivery protests. A suitable redistributive approach is envisaged as current local government funding arrangements may not be addressing objectives of development and redistribution adequately. National Treasury recently completed a review of the 2008 LGES formula and introduced a new formula for the equitable distribution of funds to municipalities. The purpose of the study was to assess the appropriateness of the new LGES formula as a resource allocation and mechanism for equitable resource sharing in government, deemed a focal point in addressing municipal fiscal challenges, using Msunduzi Municipality as reference. Underpinned by the pragmatic paradigm or philosophical worldview, the study used mixed methods research design which included review of documented data, as well as questionnaires for empirical data. The key research question was if the current Local Government Equitable Share formula fiscally capacitates municipalities such that they are able to provide basic services to communities? The study revealed that there is insufficient data available at the local government level to support the design of an appropriate LGES formula. The formula is unable to accurately quantify fiscal structural gaps in municipalities, and therefore fails to respond to basic service needs of municipalities. Furthermore, the LGES formula cannot be effective if the restraints on municipal own revenue sources are unresolved. National government must identify constraints to revenue generation and collection in municipalities to provide appropriate and sustainable financial support whilst promoting economic development, good governance and social progress for all financially ‘ailing’ municipalities.
The role of democratically elected coucillors and traditional leaders in service delivery : the case of Ubuhlebezwe municipality.
(2016) Vezi, Nkosiyezwe Cyprian.; Raga, Kishore.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The dawn of a free society and first democratic election that were non-racial elections in the mid-nineties resulted in the birth of a new epoch of leadership at the local level of government. The Constitution of South Africa, Act 108 1996, stipulates that municipalities should be established throughout the country, including the rural areas. As a result, Councillors were elected in the areas of jurisdiction previously governed by Traditional Leaders. The development of municipalities in rural areas resulted in two kinds of leadership: democratically elected Municipal Councillors and Traditional Leaders, which has caused tension between these two forms of leadership. The tensions experienced between traditional and government leaders are mainly fuelled by the overlap of the roles and responsibilities of democratically elected Councillors and Traditional Leaders. In addition, there is no set structure for the governing of relations between Traditional Leaders and democratically elected Councillors. This study explored the relationship between Traditional Leaders and democratically elected Councillors and their role in the provision of service delivery at Ubuhlebezwe Municipality. In addition, the study set out to explore the ways in which the relationship between Traditional Leaders and ward Councillors could be managed so as to harmonise the relationship between them in order to improve service delivery in Ubuhlebezwe Municipality. A case study design was used in this research and a qualitative methodology underpinned the study. Purposive sampling technique which is part of non-probability sampling method was employed to select Traditional Leaders and members of the ward committees of Ubuhlebezwe Municipality. Focus - group discussions and in-depth interviews were used to gather data from the twelve participants in the study. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data. The study found that the management of the relationship between Traditional Leaders and Councillors in respect of service delivery is poor. Traditional Leaders felt that the democratic dispensation has given a great deal of power to Councillors in decision-making and implementation of most service delivery programmes. There is no discussion or consultation between Traditional Leaders and ward Councillors, and also no agreement regarding the implementation and evaluation of service delivery strategies.. The study found that there is poor recognition of Traditional Leaders by ward Councillors, thus Traditional Leaders are not actively participating in service delivery. Consequently, there is an urgent need for interventions to be put in place to delineate the roles and responsibilities of ward Councillors and Traditional Leaders in the provision of service delivery and also to promote greater consultation between the two, not only in Ubuhlebezwe Municipality but also in South Africa more broadly.
Child support grant and poverty alleviation in Umlazi ward 84: an impact assessment.
(2016) Ngcongo, Thulisile Pearl.; Qwabe, Bongani Reginald.
In South Africa, social security forms part of the government‟s poverty-alleviation programme. Section 27(c) of the Constitution of South Africa of 1996 states that everyone, including children, has a right to social security. The Child Support Grant (CSG) was introduced in 1998 as part of social security to address poverty among children in South Africa. The CSG replaced the State Maintenance Grant (SMG) which benefited only certain racial groups. This study was conducted to assess the impact of the CSG in alleviating poverty. Ward 84 within Umlazi Township was selected as the study site. The study was undertaken using a quantitative approach. A probability sampling was conducted, using a random sampling method, wherein only beneficiaries of the CSG were sampled. One hundred participants completed the questionnaire. Collected data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Various studies have indicated that the CSG has a positive impact on ensuring that poor children have an adequate standard of living. Although positive impacts were evident, some children were reported as lacking basic needs, while other needy children were not in receipt of the CSG. The study was undertaken to assess whether the CSG has any impact on various dimensions that contribute to childhood poverty. The findings supported literature; the CSG was demonstrated as having a significant positive impact on the lives of the beneficiaries within Ward 84 in Umlazi Township. CSG impacts positively on indicators such as nutrition, education, early childhood development, health and safety, as well as children‟s material and living environment. Whilst the CSG has been proven to have a positive impact on alleviation of poverty of indigent children, the study also discovered that some needy people still have difficulties in accessing the grant. A number of recommendations were made, included continuous awareness offered to the community, monitoring and evaluation of the utilisation of the grant money, integration of basic services, and sustainable development.
The effectiveness of the Code of Good Practice in handling the occurrences of sexual harassment in a selected South African Higher Education Institution.
(2016) Miranzi, Khanyisile Pearl.; Dassah, Maurice Oscar.
The study, which examined the effectiveness of the Code of Good Practice in handling sexual harassment in the selected higher education institution (mI), had three main objectives: to ascertain the main provisions of the Code of Good Practice in handling sexual harassment, determine the level of awareness among staff of the existence of the Code of Good Practice and to understand how the policy deals with preventing the occurrence of sexual harassment in the HEI. Participants in the study included male and female academic and support staff of the HEI. Interviews were conducted with senior human resource managers and a questionnaire was distributed to the other staff. Thematic analysis was used in analysing participants' understanding and knowledge of the Code of Good Practice in handling of sexual harassment. It was found that participants had little knowledge of the role of the Code of Good Practice in handling sexual harassment. Many felt that training programmes should be implemented to enable them to gain knowledge and awareness of their rights regarding sexual harassment in the workplace. Further, the study revealed why sexual harassment is an issue in the workplace; information concerning the Code communicated to staff is inadequate. Based on the study, recommendations were made to initiate interventions aimed at minimising the incidence of sexual harassment at the FIEI. These include: training and educational programmes for staff, distribution of the Code of Good Practice to all employees, formulation of a clear policy on sexual harassment that is proactive and has preventative measures and the issuing by the IIEI of a zero tolerance policy statement on sexual harassment.
An investigation of the implementation of the training and development programme in the department of arts and culture, head office: KwaZulu-Natal.
(2016) Mohlomi, Nolufefe Matyholo.; Mutereko, Sybert.
Training and development of employees is encouragedby the Skills Development Act (97 of 1998) which encourages organisations to develop employees and to instill a culture of learning in the workplace. To further ensure that training and development is achieved, organisations should have systems and strategies in place that are linked to the highlighted strategies. This study aims to investigate and to get the insights of employees into the overall implementation of training and development in the Department of Arts and Culture, which seems to be lacking. There is no systematic training and development process that is followed to guide the overall impementation and evaluation of the programme. Training needs for employees are conducted in this Department. However the implementation and allocation of thetraining programme is not clear. People at lower levels are complaining that they do not get training programmes allocated to them and, because of this, they are not productive. The main objective of this study was to investigate the Implementation of training and Development in the KZN Arts and Culture Department. The objectives of the study include: To examine how the training needs are identified in the Department of Arts and Culture and to prioritise the training and development of employees. To determine how the allocation and implementation of training programmes are conducted at the KZN Department of Arts and Culture and to ensure that all employees get access to training. To assess whether or not there are any challenges encountered by employees and the Human Resource Manager in the delivery of training in the KZN Department of Arts and Culture. To establish whether or not training and development programmes in the KZN Department of Arts and Culture get evaluated to assess their success or failure. This study used both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Stratified purposive sampling was utilised in this study. The research sample included thirty-eight participants. The study used questionnaires to collect data. Quantitative data was analysed through the application of the SPSS 23. Qualitative data was also analysed using thematic analysis. Thereafter, findings of the study were analysed, interpreted and discussed. This study has shown that there is overwhelming evidence to substantiate the claim that training and development is not adequately provided for in the KZN Arts and Culture division. Whilst training - needs analysis is conducted, the findings revealed that training programmes are rarely provided for the respondents. Additionally, the findings have shown that there is no systematic training and development model used by the KZN Department of Arts and Culture. This study revealed that there are challenges that negatively impact on the implementation of training and development, including lack of budget and delays in supply - chain logistics. Further to that, the findings have shown that training and development is not evaluated in the KZN Department of Arts and Culture. Therefore, these results indicate that the policy and strategies of the Department regarding training and development should be reviewed. Failing which, the Department is going to continue to have unskilled labour or incompetent workers. The Human Resource Practitioners should ensure the provision of systematic training and development of the workers.
The processing domestic of violence cases by the department of justice and constitutional development: the case of Ntuzuma Magistrate Court in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2016) Mbambo, Nonhlanhla Cynthia.; Ruffin, Fayth Anese.
Domestic violence is a universal experience faced in most parts of the world. Many years ago domestic violence was considered a private matter therefore perpetrators were not necessarily brought to justice for their abusive behaviours. In 1998, however, the South African government enacted the Domestic Violence Act (DVA) to provide a public justice forum to address domestic violence. The DVA provides victims with an accessible legal tool to stop certain abuses taking place within their domestic relationships. This study aims at determining whether the processing of domestic violence cases is effective at the Ntuzuma Magistrates Court. This study seeks to determine the factors that facilitate or hinder the processing of domestic violence (DV) cases in Ntuzuma Magistrates Court while exploring the experiences of the Inanda/Ntuzuma/KwaMashu (INK) community regarding the services from the DV section in the Ntuzuma Magistrates Court. Through interviews of court personnel and a focus group of community members, stakeholder perceptions on application of the DVA and administration of DV case processing at Ntuzuma Magistrates Court are examined. The role of cultural competency in DV case processing is also considered from the perspectives of study participants. Data were analysed using a combination of thematic, content and matrix analysis. Findings reveal a problem of what appears to be ineffective administrative processing of domestic violence cases with reference to the finalisation of DV cases, case withdrawals and insufficient personnel to operate court administration. Lastly, the study concludes with recommendations for the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development to undertake as a way of improving court administration. These recommendations include increasing court personnel, rearranging division of work, and taking justice to the people through outreach programmes or community Izimbizos where community members would be educated about administration and court services to improve access to justice for domestic violence matters.
Stakeholder perspectives on network performance in biometric payment of old age grant recipients : the KwaZulu-Natal case of uMlalazi Municipality.
(2016) Mpungose, Nelisiwe Revival.; Ruffin, Fayth Anese.
WPTPS vi Dissertation Abstract The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) introduced a new BPS in 2012 as a pilot project. In 2013 the Agency embarked on a process of re-registering all social grant beneficiaries. The beneficiaries were supposed to be re-enrolled into a new system. A company called Cash Paymaster Services (CPS) was awarded a five year contract to pay SASSA’s beneficiaries through the new BPS. Re-registration was obligatory for all social grant beneficiaries. This called for network governance between the two organisations, i.e. SASSA and CPS as service providers and with beneficiaries as service recipients. This dissertation research study examines the relationship between SASSA and CPS in administration of the BPS and explores the enrolment process from the perspective of OAG recipients. The study explores the factors that facilitate or hinder the effectiveness of the BPS and how SASSA and CPS interactive service delivery is evaluated. This qualitative study is guided by network performance theory. Data were collected through interviews and focus groups as well as observation and documentary evidence. Data were analysed using a combination of content, matrix and thematic analysis and subsequently triangulated. The findings reveal that there is no precise criterion that is used by either SASSA or CPS to evaluate network performance on these organisations. Despite the fact that there is a Service Level Agreement (SLA) that serves as a guiding document detailing the responsibilities of each organisation, no one seems to take charge and ensure adherence. Furthermore, it was noted from the focus groups’ responses that some of the challenges or queries raised by the OAG beneficiaries are not effectively addressed since there is no proper system in place to either lodge or respond to complaints. The pay points where beneficiaries collect their pension pay-outs do not seem to meet the minimum requirements of the pay point. Lastly, recommendations drawn from the findings include creation of suggested criteria for network performance, establishment of a dedicated team to monitor and evaluate the performance of the involved two organisations, and to perceive grant recipients as part of the network so that they too can systematically evaluate network performance. If this happened, it would ensure SLA implementation to improve the quality of service rendered to the elderly and also to ensure restoration of their dignity.
Evaluating the implementation of performance management system in Ugu District Municipality.
(2015) Mbili, Sihle Maxwell.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
Municipal Integrated Development Plan (IDP). The municipality is required in terms of MSA to promote a culture of performance management among its political structures, political office-bearers and councillors and in its administration; and to administer its affairs in an economical, effective, efficient and accountable manner. In view of the above, it is evident that a performance management system can be regarded as one of the cornerstones of the new constitutional dispensation and that a performance management system can be considered as a practical instrument for the improved delivery of services within the municipal context. This study therefore seeks to evaluate the implementation the implementation of performance management system in Ugu district municipality with a view to improving service delivery and minimising the number of complaints which are the result of service delivery challenges. In achieving this purpose, a whole range of research methods such as interviews, focus groups and document analysis were used to collect data on the subject matter. The relevant data was analysed and was compared with legislative guidelines on the subject matter. The findings and conclusions of the study indicated that certain constraints affect the effective implementation of the performance management system by the Ugu district municipality and these include, among other things, the role of oversight structures which is not exercised, the lack of monitoring and evaluation of performance, the lack of alignment of performance review outcomes with personal development plans, and an inability to utilise the performance management system to improve services that are delivered to the community. Given the above, the researcher has made some recommendations on how to improve the performance management system of the municipality. Key recommendations require that the municipality’s targets should be outcome-based; monitoring and evaluation of performance from planning to verification of information reported on should take place; there should be mechanisms to ensure that budget is derived from the IDP; the municipality should ensure capacitation of performance oversight committees and that local communities should be allowed to participate in the planning and review of performance.
Risk management: a case study in a KwaZulu-Natal technical and vocational education and training college.
(2016) Nundkumar, Amil.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Technical and Vocational Education and Training [TVET] Colleges are expanded post-school education and training institutions which are vital for the delivery of education and training, and considered to be of strategic importance in and through the Department of Higher Education and Training [DHET]. Colleges afford a form of education to advance skills and expertise for industry, commerce and the country at large. This research study was located within Elangeni Technical and Vocational Education and Training College. The College is responsible for the provisioning of engineering and general studies programs on the National Qualifications Framework [NQF] levels 2 to 4, and other programs up to the national diploma level. According to the Continuing Education and Training Act 16 of 2006, Chapter 5 section 25(1)(c) regarding the financial records and statements, public Colleges need to implement internal audit and risk management functions which are not of a sub-standard nature to the requirements as set out in the Public Finance Management Act of 1999 (PFMA Act 1 of 1999 as amended). Based on the propositions of such legislation, TVET Colleges have to implement effective risk management functions. The research objective was to determine whether the College sustained “efficient, effective and clear” systems for risk management. The benefits of a risk management strategy are that it provides assistance to the organization as risks affecting business objectives are being managed, to ensure business continuity and to minimise reputational risks. Risk management is a managerial role targeted at safeguarding the organisation which includes its people and assets from physical and financial losses as a consequence of risk. Risk management at the TVET Colleges has been theorised within the paradigm of Public Administration and Governance. This study implemented the mixed methods research design and the target population for the research was the Institutional Management Team [IMT], staff and student class representatives. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews whilst quantitative data was gathered through a survey. The Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) was applied during data analysis of the quantitative data collected. Centred on the critical outcomes of the referenced legislation, the effectiveness of risk management has not been tested in the College. In conclusion, the outcomes of the research findings could be used as an instrument to contribute to ‘best’ practice in the College as well as other TVET Colleges, thereby improving processes and systems leading to the successful achievement of College and DHET objectives.
A community perception of service delivery: a case study of Impendle local municipality.
(2015) Muthwa, Emmanuel Xolani.; Dassah, Maurice Oscar.
With an ever increasing number of service delivery protests recorded each year, an inquiry into the quality of public service in South Africa might well be overdue. The fact that most service delivery protests have turned violent, upsetting community life and damaging private and public property is an urgent call for action from government. Yet as some have argued, this state of public service, though not deliberate, might be largely a direct consequence of government action. The government is thus accused of laxity in staffing, monitoring and evaluation, as well as implementing the audit and evaluation reports. As the prime implementer of government policy, programmes and projects, local government bears much of the brunt of this government inaction. The result is compromised quality in service delivery. This study investigates one such impact of government action on a Category B municipality. As a victim of boundary re-adjustments in 2009, Impendle Municipality has not received any financial complement to meet the service demands of its expanded jurisdiction. The assumption has been that with the increased number of communities within the municipality and no complementary budgetary increase, service quality at Impendle Local Municipality will be compromised. Using the service quality (SERVQUAL) theory, the study investigated this assumption through an assessment of: access, communication, competence, courtesy, credibility, reliability, responsiveness, securities and tangibles. Using mixed methods of data collection and analysis, the study purported to understand community perceptions on the quality of municipal services. Data was gathered through a triangulation of focus groups (conducted in each of the four wards within the municipality) and self-administered questionnaires with 80 of the 7432 municipal residents. The data was then triangulated in analysis to assess the community perceptions on the status of service quality. The study concluded that, in as much as the quality of service is low at Impendle, the problem is more with procedural issues of service delivery than it is an impact of boundary re-adjustments. Lack of access, poor communication, unstandardized service, and lack of reliability, credibility and courtesy, were viewed by participants as major issues compromising service delivery. However, the fact that these challenges are direct contraventions of the South African blueprint on service delivery – Batho Pele – re-affirms the need for effective co-operative governance in South Africa.
Impact of strategic sourcing in public sector procurement : office of the premier, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2017) Ndlovu, Ephraim Siphephelo Sifiso.; Raga, Kishore.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The largest amount of monies budgeted in the Office of the Premier in KwaZulu-Natal, apart from salaries, is accounted for through procurement activities. In the public sector the procurement function can be seen as a strategic attempt to evaluate judicious financial management by government institutions. It is therefore, regarded as a value-added function in the Office of the Premier. Evidence points to that in the public sector rarely departments adopt strategic sourcing, though proper functional strategic sourcing has the ability to produce savings for government of up to twenty per cent of the cost of services and goods procured. In this regard, the Office of the Premier is experiencing a number of procurement challenges, such as ineffective utilisation of procurement plans for goods and services, long lead times when procuring items, high volume of deviations from Supply Chain Management processes and lack of understanding and employment of strategic sourcing when procuring goods and services. It is against this background that this study has focused on determining the impact of strategic sourcing in public sector procurement. The investigation of the problem was done in two stages. Stage one encompassed of the literature study, whereas the stage two involved an empirical investigation. Focus groups interviews, using semi-structured questions were used. Some participants pointed out that procurement plans are not followed; others noted that there are numerous deviations such as poor planning by departmental components, and a lack of clear processes in the supply chain management unit. The research addressed the hypothesis that effective strategic sourcing in the public sector procurement, particularly in the Office of the Premier could help improve service delivery to its internal clients, compliance with necessary regulations, policy and legislative frameworks that govern public financial management. Recommendations included implementing a strategic sourcing model and staff training linked to supply chain-public sector procurement aligned to performance plans. Unfunded mandates, ad hoc directives, poor planning and political effect makes it difficult for the organisation to accomplish a clean audit. The study concluded that strategic sourcing and compliance to procurement policies and legislation are prominent strategic platforms that play a vital role in ensuring that procurement in the public sector is effective and efficient, with improved and sustainable service delivery to internal clients resulting in prudent management of state funds.
Enhancing disaster risk reduction processes through the nexus of indigenous knowledge and community participation: a case study of uMshwathi Local Municipality.
(2017) Nxumalo, Nkanyiso Weathington.; Ruffin, Fayth Anese.
Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) are recognised by such global organisations as the United Nations (UN) and the World Bank (WB) and nationally by governments including South Africa. However, African indigenous knowledge systems (AIKS) for disaster risk reduction (DRR) have received insufficient research attention in South Africa. This study investigated how DRR processes could be enhanced through the nexus between AIKS and com-munity participation. The focus was upon pinpointing principles, strategies, procedures and best practices to include AIKS in DRR practices. The study sought to document the AIKS that seem well suited for DRR public use. This qualitative research design was executed through a case study strategy and driven by a con-ceptual framework that intersected DRR, AIKS and public participation. The study sites were the two indigenous communities of uMshwathi (Ward 2) and Swayimane (Ward 6) in uMshwathi Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal. Data were collected through interviews, focus groups, ob-servation and documentary evidence. Respondents included municipal officials, traditional lead-ers, community elders and other community members. Data were analysed through a combination of content, matrix and thematic analysis. The findings show that the uMshwathi Disaster Management Unit (DMU) recognises and sup-ports the use of community participation systems to engage indigenous people in DRR. AIKS for DRR strategies is documented, largely through the participation of the ageing population, as key knowledge holders seek to transfer knowledge before they pass on. The study concluded that there is indeed a nexus between DRR, AIKS and community participation, yet one of the themes at the heart of that nexus is conflict, as stakeholder segments disagree as to who should take responsi-bility for DRR. UMshwati municipality could make better use of the AIKS at its disposal; in comparison to other relevant DRR stakeholders, traditional leaders seem less involved in DRR, which detracts from heightened participation of communities under traditional leadership. Recommendations are made regarding conflict management, DRR/AIKS strategy implementa-tion and enhanced cooperation among and between the stakeholder segments. Suggestions for future research are likewise presented.
Management of cultural diversity for performance enhancement: a case study in eThekwini Municipality.
(2016) Mngomezulu, Thabile Daphney.; Subban, Mogesperie.
A new democratic South Africa in 1994 led to the final Constitution with transformation of the Public Service to an effective, efficient and economical one in meeting citizens’ needs. Chapter two of the Republic of South Africa Constitution Act, 1996 is in keeping with citizens’ rights in the management of cultural diversity. Reinforcement of diversity in the Constitution formalizes 11 official languages and recommends that communities be treated equally regarding cultures, friendship, humanity and tolerance amongst all South African groups. This is premised on promoting and protecting their rights through equal distribution of resources and equitable rendering of services. In laying the foundation for diversity management in both the citizenry and the public administration context, diversity in organizations is at the heart of development. This research argues for an organization that respects differences rather than seeking to level them out and an important consequence where people are no longer forced to “belong” to a common ethnicity, or culture. Instead of focusing on diversity as the means of defining population or gender, diversity management and culture should be intently explored in order to improve organizational decision-making and performance. The intent is whether cultural diversity is a contributor to better performance of managers in the eThekwini Municipality, and finding a connection between them. As local government in the forefront of service delivery, strategies and policies on diversity ensuring the satisfaction of its employees, is thus an organizational performance imperative. One of the benefits of sensitizing employees to cultural diversity issues is that it makes them more effective in dealing with all fellow employees. A key objective includes: determining the connection between cultural diversity and performance in eThekwini Municipality in particular; and exploring the influence of organisational culture on managers’ performance. A key research question underpinning the study included focus on cultural diversity factors influencing managers’ performance. The theoretical framework locates diversity as a direct influence on performance because of its exclusive cognitive resources. The research is grounded on the theory that cultural diversity contributes to improved or enhanced performance. A sample of 148 participants informed surveys and 2 participants were interviewed using a mixed methods approach and thematic trends in organisational environment, cultural diversity, leadership and management skills and compliance were covered. Agreement to close gaps between males and females in senior management positions was evident. By improving cultural knowledge, the ability to better meet the employees, clients, communities and customers’ expectations would contribute to an effective work environment vis-a-vis improved performance.
The role of the human resource development unit of the department of Arts and Culture in promoting a culture of reading in the Edendale community.
(2018) Gumede, Abednego Babayi Ntokozo.; Zondi, Sakhile Isaac.
The investment in education will go a long way in addressing challenges of high levels of illiteracy, inequality, poverty and unemployment among poor communities. The contemporary literature indicates that high levels of illiteracy is responsible for the high levels of poverty mainly in the developing nations. Against this background, the study investigated the role of the Human Resource Development Unit of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture (HRD Unit of the KZN-DAC) in building learning societies through the development of reading habits in the Edendale community which falls under the Umsunduzi Local Municipality. The literature reviewed for the study pointed to the fact that the Sub-Saharan African region has the lowest rate of literacy of all the world regions, and that the public library system in Africa is beset by numerous challenges, particularly a lack of human resources, financial constraints and low levels of awareness for the role of libraries within communities. The study used Human Capital Theory to argue that the creation of much needed human capital for economic growth in South Africa depends mainly on a strong culture of reading. In this regard, the three elements of Human Capital Theory, namely: investment in education; advancement of population; and efficiency and productivity of employees are discussed in relation to the current study. The empirical survey was conducted through the mixed methods approach in which data collecion was conducted in a two-folded manner. Firstly, the semi-structured interviews (qualitative study) were conducted with officials from the KZN-DAC and Georgetown Public Library to solicit their views and opinions about the role of library services in the Edendale community. Secondly, the questionnaires were administered (quantitative study) to the community members of the Edendale community in order to draw statistical conclusions about their understanding of how libraries should be managed in order to produce positive results for community development. The findings of the study demonstrates that, due to resource constraints, the HRD Unit of the KZN-DAC is not playing a meaningful role in equipping the librarians with skills necessary for the promotion of a culture of reading in communities. Instead, this role is to some extent, played by the Msunduzi Municipality Library Services. The findings of the study also demonstrates that the HRD Unit of the KZN-DAC is not budgeting for the training of public librarians to equip them with requisite skills and knowledge for promoting a culture of reading. The recommendations of the study points to the need for exploring ways of closing the gap between the Municipality Library Services, the Library Information Association of South Africa (LIASA), the HRD Unit of the KZN-DAC and the Library Services Directorate of the KZN-DAC with regard to the initiatives geared towards the promotion of a culture of reading.
Municipal support mechanisms for street traders: a case study undertaken in the CBD OF Ethekwini Municipality.
(2018) Mabaso, Lungile Phumzile.; Mubangizi, Betty Claire.
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (RSA, 1996) makes provision for local government to create an environment that enables citizens to make a living for themselves. As a young democracy, South Africa is facing a continuous increase in street trading, especially in urban spaces. Street trading has become an integral part of the country’s inclusive economy. Thus, municipalities have the responsibility to allow citizens to use public spaces for street trading. This research was conducted to explore the municipality’s support mechanisms for street traders in the CBD of eThekwini Municipality. Research was based on the Public Service-Dominant Framework. The research used a qualitative method of enquiry through a single case study. This was an empirical study applying open-ended questions, thereby allowing respondents to provide in-depth information about the research objective. A focus group discussion with ten street traders was conducted, after which it was complemented with a semi-structured interview with key informants from the municipality. Findings revealed that the municipality has support mechanisms in place, but these do not talk to the needs of street traders. Thus, recommendations were made for a participatory policy intervention to ensure effective communication between the municipality and street traders. Interventions should focus on improving the quality of support provided, which is ultimately aimed at empowering street traders so they can contribute to sustainable local economic development, including a strong law enforcement agency to remove illegitimate traders. The research study concluded by recommending educational programmes, both formal and informal, aimed at improving the socio-economic status of street traders.
The roles of stakeholders in disaster risk reduction in local government: the case of Alfred Nzo District Municipality.
(2017) Mtshengu, Sinothando Lawrence.; Ruffin, Fayth Anese.
The increasing loss of human life and materials by natural and man-made conditions call for the need for disaster risk reduction (DRR). The concept of DRR emphasises the need to understand early warning signs and therefore mitigating efforts. Considering the array of challenges encountered in implementing DRR efforts, this study investigated the role of advisory forum stakeholders in DRR using the case of Alfred Nzo District Municipality (ANDM). This qualitative study engaged 10 participants from the Disaster Risk Management Advisory (DRMA) forum members of the municipality. Data for this qualitative research design were collected through individual in-depth interviews of the range of stakeholders who serve on the DRMA forum. Documentary evidence was a source of secondary data. Stakeholder engagement theory guided the study underpinned by the constructivist philosophical worldviews. The results of the study indicate that the residents of ANDM are prone to the risk of many disasters which include fire, floods, lightning, drought, accidents and tornadoes, to mention a few. Amongst the challenges faced in efforts to mitigate the risk of disasters include the growing community population, the limited institutional capacity to combat disaster risk, as well as seemingly undefined risk behaviour of communities. Given these situations, it has been recommended that physical measures should be put in place to increase DRR strategies and improve management. The institution should be capacitated in terms of the necessary equipment and financial means to combat disaster risk. This means that the DRMA forum should fulfil its mandate for public awareness efforts to educate the community on the ways of reducing the chances of hazards and disasters, for instance, by implementing safe agricultural practices to reduce deforestation and soil erosion. Recommendations are made regarding strategies for enhancement of the roles played by the various stakeholders who serve on the DRMA forum. This includes shifting the DRR discourse from a focus on response and recovery to one on DRR.
Monitoring and evaluation of training and development programmes within the office of the premier, KwaZulu-Natal province.
(2019) Sithole, Thando.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The National Development Plan (NDP) highlights the need for a capable and developmental state. This capable and developmental state will be enabled by, inter alia, a professional public service that has internalised the developmental state agenda, and the development of technical and specialist skills. Section 195 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 outlines 10 principles governing public administration. These principles from the Constitution are largely linked to the development of a professional public service. The literature consulted by this study has raised a need for the training of administrators, and the role that can be played by the training initiatives in realising the envisaged NDP priorities and Constitutional mandates. The research had consulted numerous pieces of legislation at national and provincial levels that echoed the NDP and the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. The National School of Government (NSG) has the national mandate to provide training to the public service, and the Office of the Premier, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Public Service Training Academy (PPSTA) has the provincial mandate to provide this training to public servants. The PPSTA has been exceeding annual performance targets in terms of the number of public servants trained in the province over a number of financial years. This study explores the need for a subsequent phase, to measure whether the training provided by PPSTA has an impact to the trainees (public servants) and to the provincial departments. According to the Policy Framework for the Government-wide Monitoring and Evaluation of 2007 (M&E Framework of 2007) that informed the study, the outcomes assessment precedes impact assessment. The study hence conducted outcomes assessment and not impact assessment of training programmes provided by the PPSTA. The term ‘impact assessment’ has been “borrowed” by the study for ease of reference. It transpired in the literature and during the interactions with the respondents that the term ‘outcomes assessment’ was predominantly understood by established Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) practitioners and aspiring M&E practitioners. The respondents were familiar with the term ‘impact assessment’. In conducting the impact (outcomes) assessment, the study randomly sampled 7 out of the population of 14 provincial departments that had received training in the 4 chosen training programmes during the 2013/14 financial year. The 2013/14 financial year was chosen for the study, given the assumption that the department would have gained sufficient time to monitor and evaluate the impact (outcomes) of training in accordance with M&E Framework of 2007 v outcomes assessment and the Framework for Managing Performance Information of 2007 guidelines. A pragmatism paradigm was chosen by the study to allow for triangulation of quantitative and qualitative techniques through a mixed methods approach. The study discovered that the training programmes conducted by PPSTA could be generalised to have had a positive impact (outcome) to the trainee individual’s professional growth, and mainly impacted at the provincial department’s sub-directorate level. The study revealed that the impact (outcome) of training programmes were less impactful at the higher echelons of provincial departments such as the directorate, branch and organisational levels. The findings raised the need for discussions on further research projects on the alignment of training to the strategic objectives of the departments as stated by the Human Resource Development Strategic Framework for the Public Service Vision 2015 (Strategic Framework for HRD Vision 2015). The stance taken by the Strategic Framework for HRD Vision 2015 was that in order for an organisation to realise its strategic objectives, human capital must be trained and developed. Further, the organisations should be focussed on training and development investments than cutting or managing costs in order to attain organisational effectiveness. The narrative presented in this study raises the significance of training and development, the alignment of training to organisational strategic goals as well as measuring the effects of training and development programmes. The frameworks that inform the development of tools of measurement for the effects of training and development programmes are also highlighted.

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