UWCScholar

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An analysis of the political performance management systems (PMS) impact on organisational effectiveness: A case study of the democratic alliance in the Western Cape provincial government
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Ndengu, Tinashe R.P
The intention of this study is not to debate the different contested views on performance management, good governance, and accountability but to rather assess the applicability of the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) political performance management in the field of public administration. The study further tries to provide a dimension to the link between a political party and a democratic state. In other words, that of the Party's “internal” democracy, which is predominantly its governance system rather than its relationship with the state. Through a qualitative case study of the Western Cape Provincial Government (WCPG), this paper takes stock of the effectiveness of a political Performance Management System (PMS) by specifically looking at the PMS administered by the Democratic Alliance-Western Cape Provincial Government (DA-WCPG) on the elected officials. It focuses on PMS development, its implementation, and its overall attainment as a standard operating procedure internally as well as a toolkit for the provision of public service deliverables externally.Using purposive sampling, a carefully selected sample of five participants from the WCPG (Western Cape Provincial Government) were chosen to participate in this research study. The purposive sampling method was utilized to ensure that the selected participants had the relevant experience and knowledge to provide insightful and valuable data that aligns with the objectives of the research. Each participant was identified based on their involvement in the field of study and their ability to contribute meaningfully to the research inquiry.
Ecosystem-Based approaches, gender Inclusivity and their impact on economic development: A case of Southern Malawi
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Phiri,Maziko Kalumbu
This thesis explores how ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) strategies can become more effective and equitable when they incorporate gender inclusivity, with a specific focus on Southern Malawi. As climate change continues to disproportionately impact women and marginalized groups, the study looks at how gender-sensitive approaches to adaptation can help address these deep-rooted inequalities. The research looks at how gender affects both vulnerability to climate change and the success of adaptation initiatives utilizing frameworks such as ecofeminism, intersectionality, and the capacity approach. Through interviews and fieldwork conducted in Southern Malawi, the thesis investigated current EbA initiatives that aim to protect and restore ecosystems while helping communities adapt to climate-related risks like floods and droughts. However, it was found that while these programs are well-intentioned, they often overlook the critical role women play in natural resource management and community resilience. In many cases, women—who are typically the primary users of natural resources—are excluded from decision-making processes, limiting the effectiveness of these adaptation strategies and perpetuating gender inequalities.
Dental genomics in Africa: colonial legacies and research gaps
(Frontiers Media SA, 2025) Kabbashi, Salma; Roomaney, Imaan A.; Chetty, Manogari
Oral health disparities are closely linked to broader health inequalities, particularly in global health contexts where disproportionate emphasis is placed on diseases other than oral health. In the field of dental genetics, recent investigations have highlighted persistent challenges and barriers in African genomic research. Colonial legacies continue to influence the structuring of research agendas and contribute to the marginalization of indigenous knowledge systems. We discuss the implications of these historical dynamics for the relevance of genetic research findings, and addresses the emerging ethical considerations in clinical applications and community engagement. We emphasize the need for equitable and culturally inclusive approaches to expand our genetic understanding of dental pathologies in underrepresented African populations.
The administrative reforms to fight corruption in the public sector of the democratic republic of the Congo.
(Univeristy of the Western Cape, 2003) Kalula, Mpiana
Corruption in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Public sector has reached epidemic proportions and much more needs to be done to fight it. The entrenchment of corruption has emerged as a serious problem in the DRC with significant negative consequences on administrative, political and economical development. The efforts to fight corruption in the DRC public sector need to be intensified. In this respect, the Democratic Republic of the Congo government, international organizations, and foreign governments must all do more to demonstrate and ensure that corrupt activities in the DRC will yield no current gains or future benefits. The fight against corruption in the public sector of the DRC requires ethical political leadership; in other words, a new socio-political morality (Perry, P.J., 1997, pp.29 -30). Ethical political leaders would have both the moral credibility and the ability to inspire society and influence institutions to pursue the goals of ethical and accountable governance in the interest of national development. On the other hand, public officials will not curtail or eliminate their corrupt activities if their political leaders are not exhibiting the requisite ethical and moral behavior. Fighting corruption in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, needs to be more closely linked to the benefits of good governance and a strong civil society.
Predictors of employee burnout among frontline bank staff in South Africa: a multi-theoretical approach
(Emerald Publishing, 2025) Sibindi, Ntandoyenkosi; Platen, Eckhard
Purpose – This study examines the antecedents of burnout among frontline employees in South Africa's banking sector, focusing on job demands, workload-life balance, work environment, and areas of work-life in the context of high-stress occupational environments. Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative research design was employed, with data collected from 81 employees of a leading South African bank. The study utilized validated instruments to measure burnout and its predictors. Reliability testing, correlation, and regression analyses were conducted to assess relationships between variables and identify significant predictors. Findings – Job demands, workload-life balance, and areas of work-life significantly predict burnout, with job demands and workload-life imbalance emerging as the strongest predictors. The work environment exhibited no measurable impact on burnout. The internal consistency of scales was confirmed, and the model explained a significant proportion of burnout variance. Research limitations/implications – The study focuses on a single South African bank, which may limit generalizability. Future research should expand to other banks and sectors to validate findings and explore additional factors influencing burnout. Practical implications – Organizations can mitigate burnout by managing workloads, implementing employee assistance programs (EAPs), offering flexible work policies, and addressing work-life balance issues. These interventions can improve employee well-being and enhance performance in the banking sector. Originality/value – This study contributes to the limited research on burnout in emerging markets, particularly in the South African banking sector. It provides actionable insights for addressing burnout among frontline employees, emphasizing the importance of balancing job demands and resources.