Magister Artium (Development Studies) - MA (DVS)

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The state and political struggle: strategies of repression and resistance in the greater Cape Town area from 1985 to 1989
(University of Western Cape, 2000) Fullard, Madeleine; le Roux, Pieter
In the period 1985 to 1989 both the state and the liberation movements sought to implement strategies of repression and resistance inside South Africa. These unfolded in the different regions of the country in unique ways. In the absence of detailed regional studies of the encounter between the two, this study examines the experience of Cape Town.
Sustainability of the Zambian microfinance industry: A case study of credit management services
(University of the Western Cape, 2002) Phiri, Veronica Nanyangwe; Le Roux, P.J.; Musona, D.
This thesis is both a qualitative and quantitative study, investigating the sustainability of Credit Management Services Limited (CMS) within the broader context of the Zambian micro finance industry. Micro finance is regarded as one of the tools for poverty reduction. As such, making microfinance available to many poor people is the purpose of microJinance. Over the years it has become clear that microfinance institutions have to operate efficiently and be self-sustai nable in order to continue assisting the poor. However. in spite of the support and encouragement given for sustainability, evidence shows that there are few sustainable microfinanee institutions in the world. The various factors impacting upon sustainability therefore, need to be examined and means of enhancing sustainabi Ii ty mapped out. The study brought to the fo re the main viewpoints regarding sustainability and how they have been inl1uenced by experiences of MFls around the world. The framework for discussion and analysis of operational sustainability, financial sustainability and operational e ffi ciency is also set out. The study discusses the Zambian microfinance industry and shows how and why the industry has emerged and grown in the past decade. Some constraints are identified that need to be dealt with in order to enhance sustainability of the industry. The study of CMS reveals that the institution is not yet fi nancially sustainable, but that its effi ciency levels are steadily increasing as it has put in place mechanisms to recover costs, charge economic rates of interest and increase and maintain its client outreach. Indicators are that it is moving in the right direction with its cost recovery. increasing client outreach and utilization of loans for on-lending as opposed to subsidies. This study therefore draws on the general experiences of the Credit management Services in order to draw lessons for the Zambian industry. The study will argue the case that though sustainability is difiicult to achieve, there arc positive indicators in the Zambian industry that this is possible and that CMS could be considered as an example. This claim is verified against the experi ence on the ground of Credit Management Services. The study concludes that building a sustainable microfinance industry anywhere is not the easiest task. Sustainabi lity is possible but requires a lot of investment in capacity bui lding and del iberate steps for cost effi ciency, appropriate pricing poli cies and an increased client outreach. The Zambian situation characterised by even a younger industry. will require not only a concerted effort in capacity building, but much more, the need to counter constra ints in the external environment of Mrls. Recommendations lo stake holders inc lude the need to utilise cheaper local human resources and invest in strengthening local institutions owned by local communities, to enhance the sustainability or micro finance initiatives.
The role of Ecotourism in the Reconstruction of postwar Rwanda.
(University of the Western Cape, 2004) Mbayiha, Patrick Manzi; Kepe, Thembela
The study examines the role of ecotourism in the reconstruction of post-war Rwanda. This is in the context of widespread poverty throughout Rwanda, and the government's efforts to improve the population's welfare, following years of civil war .. The study is based on secondary data review, including government's policies on poverty alleviation, literature on the role of ecotourism in development and a case study of a national park where ecotourism is seen as bringing in much needed revenue. The study concludes that ecotourism in Rwanda has potential to contribute to economic growth, and this is in part due to the country's unique flora and fauna. However, the study also points out that several challenges to this potential remain. These include the country's still shaky security and the widespread poverty itself.
Tax assignment to local governments -The Case for Fiscal Decentralization in Peru
(University of Western Cape, 2004) Hoyos, Andres Lopez; Janus, Hartmut; Le Roux, Pieter
A country's decentralization process can be one of the pillars of democratic participation, local and regional accountability, sub-national empowerment, and under certain conditions, economic growth. Fiscal decentralization, a sub-division of decentralization, plays an important role in defining the assignment of expenditure and of revenue sources to subnational levels of government. The proper assignment of revenue provides all the different governments of a country with the necessary financial resources to operate efficiently. In this mini-thesis, I analyze the assignment of taxes as revenue sources to local governments, giving special focus to the Peruvian case. It aims at proposing an optimal local taxation system for Peruvian local governments.
An investigation into farming enterprises under the land redistribution program in the Southern Cape
(University of Western Cape, 2004) Okada, Masanori; Labiff, Edward; Catting, David
In 1994, the first democratically elected South African government promised to redistribute 30 % of white-owned farmland to the formerly disadvantaged people in order to rectify the racially-based unequal distribution of land and to improve their socioeconomic conditions. The ANC-led government opted to promote agriculture for achieving the latter aim since agriculture is generally seen to have a strong potential for poverty alleviation and economic development in the under-resourced areas.
Fiscal decentralization in Kenya: a case of the Constituency Development Fund in Nambale Constituency - its effectiveness and sustainability on education projects
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Wabwire, Phaustine; Penderis, Sharon; Institute for Social Development; Faculty of Arts
This study aims to establish the effectiveness and sustainability of Kenya's Constituency Development Fund as a fiscal decentralized initiative aimed at poverty reduction. The study focuses on the contribution of CDF on education and how this has brought about changes related to increased access to education, better education facilities and improved performance. The study also seeks to highlight prime factors such as participation in decision making as necessary for the implementation of the CDF, while also highlighting those factors that hinder the effective and sustainable implementation of the program.
Local solutions from local people : community participation in crime prevention in Khayelitsha
(University of the Western Cape, 2012) Manaliyo, Jean-Claude; Nleya, Ndodana
The involvement of local communities in crime prevention programmes emerged as an alternative strategy for fighting and preventing crime after the failure of the criminal justice system to control and deter criminal activities effectively. Governments across the globe regard local communities as key actors in fighting and preventing crime. Community participation in crime prevention has become a key strategy to improve safety and security. The main aim of this study is to explore the extent to which residents of Khayelitsha contribute to the maintenance of security and order in their area; and to investigate the extent to which residents are empowered to solve crime problems on their own. The framework of this study is grounded on theories of crime namely: occupational choice, social learning, and social disorganisation; and concepts such as crime, crime prevention, and community participation. The literature review of this study focuses crime situation in South Africa with emphasis on crime trends, costs of crime, determinants of crime, and attempts made by the South African government to fight and prevent crime at national and local government levels. The study used key informant in-depth interviews with representatives of anti-crime community-based organisations in Site B and as well as ordinary residents of Site B. Data of this study is largely qualitative although it is supplemented with quantitative data relating to crime statistics which was collected as secondary data. In this study, both narratives and crime statistics reveal that robbery and theft-related crimes, drug abuse, and assaults are among the most predominant crimes. All informants perceived poverty and the use of drugs and alcohol as root causes of crime in Site B. The residents contribute in preventing and fighting crime in Site B by engaging in the following activities: patrolling streets as volunteers in Community Policing Forums (CPF); and providing crimerelated information to anti-crime organisations such as South African Police Service (SAPS), South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO), and Khayelitsha Development Forum (KDF). The residents also get involved in crime prevention informally by exercising informal social sanctions. However, challenges such as ineffectiveness of the law enforcement and lack of financial support hinder the residents’ participation in crime prevention.
Affirmative action policy in higher education: impact and perceptions of the use of race as part of the criteria for admission at the University of Cape Town
(University of the Western Cape, 2012) Muluh, Momasoh Cletus; Nleya, Ndodana
After the first democratic election in South Africa in 1994, the new democratic government harnessed all its resources towards establishing a non-racial society based on a constitution that embodies equal rights. One of the enduring legacies of apartheid is the extreme socio-economic disparities that emerged in the South African society. Higher education in the context of South Africa is also a means of bridging the inequality gap created during the colonial and apartheid periods (Reddy, 2004). Moreover, apartheid education, as with other sectors of society was racialised in favour of whites creating a drought in skills within the other race groups. The need to establish an equitable and efficient higher education thus became one of government’s pivotal priorities. The adoption of affirmative action policies that have prioritised university access by underprivileged black students has been pointed to as one of the means to address racial inequalities in education. The thesis postulates that that the use of race in implementing affirmative action policy is neither a sufficient means to, nor an end of, redressing the ills of apartheid. Through qualitative and quantitative methods, the present study analyses the impact of affirmative action policies at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and gauges the level of transformation as a result of the use of race as a proxy for admission into UCT. The study examines the equality of access and enrolment of first time entering undergraduate students into UCT through race based admission. Despite government and institutional (for example UCT) efforts to pursue a transformatory agenda, affirmative action policies continue to cause ruptures both within university communities and beyond. This research is going to use both quantitative and qualitative designs. The quantitative approach will be used where necessary – such as in reviewing racial split of enrolment over time – to glean on the figures. Such figures will however not be generated by the study itself but from officials from UCT. On the other hand, the qualitative approach will be used through the analyses of debates occurring in the UCT community in order to gauge perceptions on the policy.
An appraisal of participatory monitoring and evaluation in government community development initiatives : a case study of Tana and Athi River Development Authority (TARDA), Kenya
(University of the Western Cape, 2012) Mariga, Erick; De Coning, Christo
Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation (PME) is an integral part for the success of any government community development initiative as it helps foster a sense of ownership and at the same time promotes meaningful development at grass-root level. The Government of Kenya (GOK), through the Ministry of Regional Development has established Regional Development Authorities (RDA’s) that are mandated to promote development within their areas of jurisdiction by implementing integrated programmes and enhancement of community participation. It is against this backdrop that this research investigation is using Tana and Athi River Development Authority (TARDA) in Kenya as a case study in order to appraise how PME is applied in this process. The people-centred development theory constituted the theoretical grounding of the study, and in addition implementation approaches to PME were discussed in relation to the various project management areas of knowledge. Qualitative methods of research were applied throughout the study in assessing the level of stakeholders’ participation in monitoring and evaluation. A mix of interviews and focus group discussions were utilized. More specifically, individual interviews were conducted with the project beneficiaries/community, TARDA management, project management facilitators, as well as monitoring and evaluation specialists in an attempt to unravel how and to what extent Tana County residents are involved in the monitoring and evaluation process of TARDA projects. Empirical findings gathered from the study were reflected upon through concrete grounded discussions on the contribution of PME in increasing community participation, empowerment and decision-making in various development projects. The research findings also indicated that PME plays a pivotal role in ensuring accountability and transparency of institutions thus creating investor confidence and promoting regional-balanced development. Furthermore, the findings also revealed that an effective PME system gives decision makers an additional public sector management tool, while at the same time building on the capacities of the beneficiaries. Finally, it is proposed that PME should be a standard practice among public sector institutions that embrace PME techniques, also in order to document and share PME experiences for purposes of information generation and future sustainable development.
Perceptions of risk for HIV amongst South African university students: the impact of the MTV film “Shuga”
(University of the Western Cape, 2012) Lila, Halima; Lees, James
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic continue to endanger the lives of many people in the world, particularly in developing countries like South Africa (UNAIDS, 2010). South Africa has the largest percentage of people living with HIV & AIDS in the world, with AIDS continuing to be the leading cause of death(UNAIDS, 2010). Yet, as Svenson et al., (1997), Cain, (2005), Shisana et al., (2009) and Kalichman et al., (2005) argue, in spite of the HIV epidemic, risky sexual behaviour has increased among young people. Problematically, youth in university environments are reported to be uninterested in hearing about HIV, claiming to be tired and bored with the subject (HEAIDS, 2010). They think they have sufficient knowledge on HIV transmission and prevention. Regardless of this claim, a high rate of new infections of HIV among youth continues (The South African Department of Basic Education Report, 2010). The main purpose of this study was to assess UWC students’ knowledge about HIV and their attitudes towards it, while investigating the impact of the MTV-produced Shuga film on the students’ self-perception of risk and their attitudes toward HIV. The study assesses the value of a follow-up conversation on the film after it is viewed by students.In order to identify respondents’ perceptions, the study used a qualitative approach using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions as main instruments and a quantitative approach using questionnaires as a main instrument. The study used a gender-balanced convenience sample of 40 undergraduate and post-graduate students selected from University of Western Cape campus. These respondents were later divided into four focus group discussions guided by semi-structured interviews. The study findings established that although students’ knowledge levels were very high for modes of transmission and prevention of HIV, they still had a poor perception of their own risk – a factor noted as a key need in HIV prevention by Douglas Kirby (2011).This study found that, prior to watching the MTV Shuga film, the level of students’ awareness of HIV issues as related to their own risk and health was at best inconsistent. While some held accurate knowledge of HIV and understood their own vulnerability, others saw it as someone else’s problem and had yet to personalise the disease in a manner that would increase their own awareness of risk. After viewing the MTV Shuga film, study data indicated a reasonable level of positive change in attitudes and risk perception among the 40 students. However, the data clearly indicated that the follow-up discussion sessions provoked more change in the students’ attitudes and perceptions of risk than the film on its own. The study therefore suggests the importance of discussion sessions that follow up on edutainment media pieces attempting to promote positive behavioural change vis-à-vis HIV. While the study did not focus in depth on why the follow-up discussion sessions had a higher impact than film-viewing alone, the discussion sessions allowed students to personalise the content of the Shuga film, sharing with each other how they identified with various characters, situations and behaviours. Shuga became ‘real’ through the personal discussions between students, and the film’s intent to prompt positive change was further supported.
Assessing the impact of exports and imports on economic growth: a case study of Malawi from 1970 to 2010
(University of the Western Cape, 2013) Nyasulu, Themba; Dinbabo, Mulugeta
In line with neoclassical economic growth propositions that outward-orientation fosters economic growth, since independence from Britain in 1964 the Government of Malawi has placed international trade at the centre of its economic development agenda. In spite of this theoretical affirmation of the trade-growth relationship, some empirical studies that have been done both in the country and abroad show contrary results. This prompted this study to be undertaken with the aim of assessing the impact of exports and imports on economic growth in Malawi from 1970 to 2010.This study has used a neoclassic economic growth model containing gross domestic product, exports, imports, capital and labour force as variables of analysis. After collecting annual time series data on the variables for the period 1970 to 2010 from the World Bank online statistical data base, Ordinary Least Squares regression and several econometric tests were run on the model to ensure robust and accurate results. Statistical accuracy of the findings was further cemented by use of the 5 percent level of significance. Exports were found to have a positive and statistically significant effect on the country’s economic growth, while imports had a negative and insignificant influence. Similarly, capital and labour force showed a positive effect on economic growth even though the capital’s effect was statistically insignificant. Nevertheless, the study also strongly confirmed the presence of a long-run equilibrium among the variables. The above results strongly suggest that Malawi should continue with its export-led economic growth strategies such as the Economic Recovery Plan (ERP) and the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy (MDGS). However, if the two economic development plans are to bear fruit this study strongly urges Malawi to consider diversifying its economy away from primary export production and instead embark on value-addition. Furthermore, the country should not only reduce the importation of consumer goods in favour of capital goods, but also improve the quality of the labour force and capital formation, if Malawi is to realise its economic development and poverty alleviation aspirations.
An investigation into pre-university factors that could inhibit access to higher education for learners from low socio-economic backgrounds: the case of high school x in Khayelitsha, Cape Town
(University of the Western Cape, 2014) Bonani, Khwezi; Mcghie, Venicia
This study investigated the factors inhibiting learners from low socio- economic backgrounds from accessing higher education. The intention to investigate and identify these inhibiting factors was motivated by the growing body of evidence that suggests that there is a correlation between poverty and lack of education. The aim of the study was to investigate which pre-university factors have the most inhibiting impact on learners from low socio-economic backgrounds. The objective was to identify these factors in order to find ways in which they could be overcome and/or prevented. It was argued that, if the impact of the inhibiting factors could be minimised or eliminated, more learners would be able to access higher education successfully. The theoretical framework used in the study was based on Sen’s Capabilities approach. The list of capabilities applied to analyse the data were education and skill, economic resources, employment and working conditions, housing, and family and social integration. The study was positioned within a qualitative, interpretive research paradigm and used a case study design. The research site was a high school in Khayelitsha near Cape Town. Research participants were purposively selected and consisted of a total of twenty-nine learners from across Grade 10, 11 and 12, as well as three educators.The study used multiple sources of data instruments: secondary data (statistics and other census information about Khayelitsha), the participants’ June 2014 progress reports, a demographic information sheet, a reflective questionnaire and three focus group interviews (one per Grade).Content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data through a three-stage open coding process. The list of inhibiting factors discussed in the literature, namely poor schooling, a lack of financial means, a lack of knowledge and information, and socio cultural factors was indeed confirmed by the data collected in this study. Other factors emerged from the data and these were regarded as new knowledge that this study contributes towards the body of knowledge. Lastly, the findings suggest that the inhibiting factor which had the greatest impact on learners from low socio-economic backgroundswas a lack of knowledge and information because this factor negatively impacted on all the capabilities listed above. Based on these findings, recommendations were proposed for the parents and community, school and educators, the Department of Basic Education, the Department of Higher Education and Training, and for higher education institutions.
People’s understanding of TB in a setting of high HIV/TB prevalence: case studies in Gugulethu Township, Western Cape Province
(University of the Western Cape, 2014) Ncube, Wenzokuhle S.; Gibson, Diana
Tuberculosis (TB) infection is present in many people but it is sometimes latent until one’s immune system is compromised. As such, it increasingly manifests in people, especially those whose immune system has been compromised by e.g. HIV, as an opportunistic disease. TB is thus closely interlinked with HIV and efforts to eradicate TB have been integrated with the fight against HIV in South Africa. The study revealed that factors such as poverty and stigma - be it enacted or perceived - has an impact on how people with TB deal with the burden of having the disease. Using qualitative research as the choice of methodology and collecting data using observations, in-depth interviews and structured interviews among 18 participants the study focused on the ways in which people understand TB in an area that is known to have high HIV prevalence. The researcher explored people’s experiences with TB and investigated their understanding of the disease as well as explored how people on Directly Observed Treatment Strategy (DOTS) make sense of and interact with this programme in Gugulethu Township. During the study it emerged that people have significant understanding of TB and its symptoms but their initial reaction to those symptoms is selfmedication and this results in delayed treatment seeking. TB is stigmatised in Gugulethu despite some people acknowledging that the environment itself is partly to blame for the rapid spread of the disease. The study revealed that there is good healthcare provision in Gugulethu and it is accessible but the burden of suffering from TB is a difficult one that requires family support, financial support and good relations with clinic and hospital staff in order for one to adhere to treatment and recover from TB.
Indicator development for the monitoring of performance of sport for development programmes for the youth in the Western Cape Government
(University of the Western Cape, 2014) Christians, Yolanda; De Coning, Christo
From the international literature, as well as from South African initiatives, it is clear that the use of sport and development programmes have a tremendous potential to impact on development. Past efforts in South Africa also shows that sport and development initiatives can make a huge impact on youth development and serve as a vehicle for improved social and economic well-being. This was acknowledged by a recent Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) and Interdisciplinary Centre for Sport and Development (ICESSD) publication called, “The Case for Sport: Socio-economic benefits of Sport and Recreation in the Western Cape”. This was the first such research done at the Provincial Government and a particular research finding showed that inadequate monitoring of youth programmes, including the Mass Participation, Opportunity Access, Development and Growth (MOD) Centres were being done. Against the background of the South African Government’s increased efforts to support sport and development a need has also arisen for the improved performance management of these initiatives. In particular, a need exists for an improved understanding of available indicators for the improved monitoring and evaluation of sport youth development programmes. This research investigation conducted both an assessment of available indicators from a theoretical and comparative point of view as well as undertook a case study approach to investigating the type of indicators needed in future in the case of the MOD Centres in the Western Cape. The research methodology consisted of a qualitative study using a case study approach and by collecting information through a literature review, desktop study of primary and secondary sources, semi-structured interviews as well as focus groups. The study included a psycho-social behavioural survey to develop and test some of the anticipated outcomes and indicators for youth programmes. The research findings show that the MOD Centres have been using a good basic set of mostly output indicators but that international and local experiences show that a generic compendium of outcomes-based indicators can be developed that will provide a basis for the monitoring of sport and development programmes for the youth. These provide for exciting options, including the application of the Olympic values and the possibility of including human capital indicators to assess the impact of sport and development initiatives on the youth. This study provides a systematic overview of the existing indicators in use as well as alternative indicators that have been identified through this study. The research findings include a set of proposed anticipated outcomes and indicators for use in sport and development programmes. Specific recommendations have been made to Government, civil society and the research community in this respect.
Factors that could facilitate a successful transition from high school to post- school education: the case of high school X in Phillipi
(University of the Western Cape, 2014) Jansen, Janine Charlene; Mcghie, Venicia
This study investigated the factors that could influence Grade 12 learners from low socio-economic backgrounds and their decision-making process with regard to accessing post-school education. The aims of the study were to establish the factors that could facilitate a successful transition from high school to university study, as well as identify the factors that potentially could inhibit the learners’ transition. The objective of the study was to make recommendations, based on the findings of the research data, that could assist the different role players on how best to facilitate, guide and support high school learners’ post-school educational choices. It was proposed that knowledge of the factors that could promote or inhibit the decision-making process of learners would provide valuable insights that could be used to enable more learners to access higher education and, in so doing, increase the participation rates of African and coloured youth at higher education institutions. The student-focused Chapman college-choice model was used as the theoretical framework in order to gain insights into what the factors were that have a significant influence on the choice of learners to pursue studies beyond high school. The study was situated within an interpretative, qualitative research paradigm, using a case study design. The research site was a high school in Phillipi near Cape Town. The research participants consisted of twenty-eight Grade 12 learners who were selected by means of purposive sampling. Three Grade 12 educators also participated in the study. The research instruments included, for the learners, a demographic information sheet, a self-reflective questionnaire and three focus group interviews. Secondary data was included in the discussions. The educators had to complete a self-reflective questionnaire only. Content analysis, using a three-stage open coding process was used to analyse the qualitative data which were organised according to the study’s three sub-questions. The factors discussed in the theoretical framework were used as a guide to group the data into themes and sub-themes. The findings of this study corresponded with the literature reviewed and the factors identified in the theoretical framework, but one finding contradicted the literature, while new factors emerged from the data collected. The findings revealed that there was a greater need of support required from the different role players - family, friends, the community, educators and the school; the Departments of Basic Education and Higher Education; higher education institutions, non-governmental organisations; and companies and other institutions - to ensure that an enabling environment is created to support Grade 12 learners’ transition from high school to university studies. Based on these findings, recommendations were made on how an enabling and supportive environment for Grade 12 learners could be strengthened.
An assessment of women’s participation in agricultural production: a case study of Marange Irrigation Scheme in Zimbabwe
(University of the Western Cape, 2015) Simango, Patience Masimba; Dinbabo, Mulugeta Fitamo
Agriculture is the chief economic activity in many rural communities and women who make up the majority of the rural dwellers play a focal role in this sector. Despite efforts aimed at promoting women’s rights and ensuring gender equality in development, researchers have shown that women are still marginalised and have less access to productive resources needed for effective agricultural production. Using quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, the research investigated the nature and the extent of women’s participation in agricultural production at Marange Irrigation Scheme in Marange Communal Land, Zimbabwe. The participatory development theory was employed to guide the research. Data collection tools utilised in this study were a well structured questionnaire, semi-structured individual interviews and observation. Analysis of quantitative and qualitative data was done using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis respectively. The results of this study showed high level of women’s participation in most farm activities but low participation in extension programmes. The socio-economic variables considered for Pearson’s correlation tests – age, household income, education, land size and number of dependents – showed no significant relationship with the level to which women participate in agricultural activities. The findings of this study revealed that the key factors constraining women’s participation in agricultural activities were lack of capital, limited agricultural inputs, market constraints and water shortages. In addition, the research showed that farmers were not fully involved in every step of the irrigation development project. Consequently, women’s agricultural productivity was low and the sustainability of the project was uncertain. Despite these challenges, the results of this study revealed that participating in farming can instil a sense of ownership, enhance capacities and improve livelihoods. The level of women’s participation in farm decision-making was found to be high. This study advances that addressing women’s agricultural needs and improving their access to agricultural productive resources could result in effective participation of women in agriculture and meaningful agricultural productivity. In line with the participatory development theory, the study further contends that the full participation of women, as well as other intended beneficiaries, in the development process could be the key to sustainable rural development initiatives. This could help bring the much needed transformation in rural areas.
Internal migration, remittances and welfare impacts : a case study in Dormaa Municipality, Ghana
(University of the Western Cape, 2015) Yeboah, Collins; Dinbabo, Mulugeta. F
This study examines internal migration, remittances and welfare impacts among migrant households in the Dormaa Municipality in the Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana. Data were gathered though a questionnaire survey among 202 migrant households and in-depth interviews with 8 of them and some key informants. The findings were analysed largely based on the Push-Pull theory and New Economics of Labour Migration Theory. The findings of the study indicate that an overwhelming majority of migrant households reported an improved welfare as a result of having a migrant in their household who have moved away to other communities during the last 10 years and have been away for the last six months or are expected be away for six months or more. Majority of these migrants sent remittances back to their families left behind, either in the form of cash or goods. More males migrate than females,which is consistent with the general tendency for males to migrate more than females. The age category with the highest proportion of migrants was 30-39 years. Many of the migrants moved to another town or village in Ghana for work-related reasons, notably job transfer, work, or seek work/better work. The migrants themselves were the main people who made the decisions to migrate followed by spouses, parents and siblings, lending support to the collective decision making within households. Also, most of the migrants had some connections or contacts at their most recent migration destinations. A lot of the migrants relied on their personal savings to finance their migration whilst others received funds from family members and banks to finance their migration. The study recommend that government should make efforts to monitor remittance flow in Ghana and also increase awareness about the importance of remittance for the national and household economy. Further, there is the need to scale up education on social attitudes and discourses about internal migration and policy initiatives on remittance management in Ghana.
Assessing the role of youth civic engagement in promoting social change : a critical investigation of ILISO in site C, Khayelitsha
(University of the Western Cape, 2015) Jere, Gweze John; Karriem, Abdulrazak
Youth Civic Engagement is not a new phenomenon in South Africa. Throughout the history of country, spanning from the early resistance to colonialism in 1652 to the formation of the African National Congress in 1912 and its Youth League in 1944, the Soweto uprising in 1976, right up to the 1994 independence struggle, the youth has always played a pivotal role in social transformation. Unlike in the past where there was a common enemy in Apartheid, today the country faces a more complex set of socio-economic challenges. Despite being a middle income country, South Africa grapples with extreme poverty and income inequality, which impacts on educational opportunities and ultimately civic awareness and involvement. Approximately 42% of young people under the age of 30 are unemployed. The country currently has a youth population (14-35 years of age) which is about 41% of its entire population of almost 54 million. This youth population growth in itself implies that youth development should be a major priority area if growth and development are to be realised. The research is based in Khayelitsha. The social-economic problems faced among Khayelitsha township youth are complex and multidimensional in nature. The research question is: how is youth civic engagement able to initiate and foster collective action among community members of Site C in Khayelitsha, in order to promote social change? ILISO Care Society, a Community Based Organisation based in Site C was used as a case study for the research. In line with the theory and conceptual framework of social capital, the study demonstrates how reciprocal relations, trust and strong bonds, act as seedbeds for collective action. The Integrated Model of Communication for Social Change is incorporated into the framework to narrow down the social capital theory to an operational level. It is also used to illustrate how novel methods of dialogical communication adopted by ILISO Care Society reinforce social learning and promote democratic practices among young people. Both the quantitative and qualitative approaches were used for the study, with much of the analysis being grounded in qualitative methods. Data collection was done by means of the following utilities: a survey questionnaire which was administered among 52 respondents, semi- structured interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation by the principle researcher. The study revealed how the legacy of apartheid’s segregation policies have had enduring effects particularly on the education system, in turn, negatively impacting on youth civic participation, as well as other interlinked spheres of society. Most importantly, the findings revealed that the ILISO youth civic engagement projects have contributed in increasing the level of confidence (efficacy) to solve community problems of not only the ILISO project members, but also the wider Site C community. This was evidenced in the research participants‟ own belief in their ability to produce change (self-efficacy) and the ILISO youth members‟ shared belief as a group, in their ability (collective self-efficacy) to bring about social transformation. This has led to Site C youth acting collectively (collective action)when faced with challenges, thereby promoting social change.
An appraisal of urban agriculture as a livelihood strategy for household food security : a case study of urban food gardens in Ward 51, Langa, Cape Town
(University of the Western Cape, 2015) Philander, Freda Rhona; Karriem, Abdulrazak
Food security is a development challenge in South Africa with 52% of the population being food insecure and 33% at risk of hunger. Inequalities and inefficient food distribution networks lead to inadequate access to sufficient and nutritional food. Poor communities experience bad access to good food and good access to bad food. Citizens have to be satisfied with cheap, low nutritious and high calorific food leading to malnutrition, and diseases – the hidden hunger. Being hungry is more than just a lack of food; it provokes despair, humiliation, sadness, low self-esteem – perceive as the genocide of the mind. Urban agriculture has been advocated as a livelihood strategy to improve food security. The Urban Rural Development Capacity Building Project (URDCBP), a non-profit organization (NPO), initiated three urban food garden projects within Langa, Cape Town to improve food security and create employment within that community. Ward 51, Langa is the study area of this thesis. The aim of this research is (1) to assess the contribution of urban food garden projects as a livelihood strategy for food security and the livelihood outcomes thereof; (2) to determine what other livelihood strategies and coping mechanisms poor communities adopt to be more food secure; and (3) to propose recommendations to improve and expand urban food gardens. The mixed-methodology research paradigm was employed. In the quantitative design, 83 randomly selected participants completed the self-administered closed-ended questionnaires. STATA 12.1 was used as a tool for the quantitative analysis. The descriptive statistics present the socio-demographic and economic trends of the households by the scores of each variable and the existence of any relationships between the variables. Conclusions were drawn from the sample data about the populations with inferential statistics. The qualitative data collection included two semi-structured interviews with government officials and two focus group discussions with 17 community members and 13 beneficiaries respectively. Purposive sampling was used in the qualitative research and emerging themes were identified in response to the research objective supporting the quantitative analysis. The results attest that 82% of the respondents indicated that the urban food gardens contribute to their household food security. However, low levels of food security are still experience within the community. With the Sustainable Livelihood Approach as theoretical framework, the study accentuates other livelihood outcomes of urban agriculture such as improving health, improving self-esteem and improving food security. Some of the coping strategies adopted include having willpower and skills, relying on family and friends for food and borrowing and dependency on social grants. The contribution of urban food gardens to food security is minimal in the Western Cape as only 2% of the households cultivate crops as their main source of food. In the study, 63% of the respondents would like to start their own food gardens and 14% would like to extend their urban food gardens. In both instances, land has been identified as the greatest concern. With the correct strategies and support, urban food gardens can be extended to make a larger contribution to the food security levels of the urban poor. Government intervention is much needed to fight hidden hunger, poverty and food security and this requires political commitment.
Exploring the link between youth migration and food security : a case study of Zimbabwean youths in Cape Town, South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2015) Sithole, Sean Thulani; Dinbabo, Mulugeta F.
In recent times, debates on the connection between migration and development surfaced as essential discourses in contemporary development issues. Consequently, this led to the birth of what is currently popularly acknowledged or coined as the migration-development nexus. In addition, there has been an evolution of the food security topic in various developmental discussions. Nevertheless, little attention has been given to the relationship between international migration and food security in the context of development. Moreover, missing in the literature is the conversation on migration and food security with particular attention to youths who constitute a vulnerable yet economically active group. Furthermore, there has been an ongoing engaging debate on the impact of remittances, on one side macro-economists argue that remittances are important for the economies of migrant sending and receiving countries and view the use of remittances at the household level as destruction to growth and development. On the other, microeconomists are skeptical about the naïve view of the macroeconomists; on the contrary, they argue that the use of remittances at the household level is very vital for the livelihood of the poor and vulnerable societies. This thesis empirically investigated the link between youth migration and food security in the setting of Zimbabwean youths in Cape Town, South Africa, in the perspective of south-south migration, the New Economics of Labour Migration and Livelihood Approaches, consequently introducing what the researcher identifies as the youth migration-food security nexus. The thesis focused on three key themes: 1) reasons for youth migration in connection to food security 2) the importance of remittances on food security in the place of origin 3) levels of food insecurity of Zimbabwean youths in Cape Town. A combination of quantitative and qualitative research approach was applied in this study, where STATA version 12 statistical software was used for quantitative data analysis. The findings of this thesis reveal that there is an assenting link between youth migration and food security. Firstly, results point out that food insecurity or food shortage is one of the main causes of youth migration. Secondly, migration decision making is a collective and cooperative livelihood strategy used by many households or families. Thirdly, remittances from youths are vital for the livelihood of the people left in the place of origin and are primarily sent and used for food consumption. Lastly, although food security levels were still low there was an improvement of food security for youth migrants in Cape Town. Moreover, this research recognized a number of challenges that face migrant youths in their need for food security, which include (a) lack of reliable income to buy food, (b) poor utilization of food or consumption of unbalanced diet, and (c) limited research on migration and food security issues. In contextualizing these challenges, the study concludes with remarks and recommendations for policy makers, governments and nongovernmental establishments among other organizations.

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