Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

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https://hdl.handle.net/10566/17

The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences has a strong focus in applied research and has a number of specialised research units including the Programme for Land and Agrarian Studies (PLAAS), the Entrepreneurship Development Unit (EDU), the Institute for Social Development (ISD), the African Centre for Citizenship and Democracy (ACCEDE) and the EMS Student Support and Research Unit (ESSRU).

Electronic theses and dissertations are available in the Electronic Theses and Dissertations Repository.

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South African institutions top THE Africa rankings pilot (09 July 2015)

Why child malnutrition is still a problem in South Africa 22 years into democracy (02 June 2016)

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A 20-year evaluation of PLAAS research outputs: Impact on the scholarly domain and in social media
(Academy of Science of South Africa, 2019) Kerchhoff, Gillian; Kahn, Michelle; Nassimbeni, Mary
Patterns and methods of scholarly communication have changed with the growth in information technology, particularly the Internet and the social web. The changes have necessitated a broader definition of scholarly communication and the role of social media in the research process. We sought to record the body of work that the Institute for Poverty, Land and Agrarian Studies (PLAAS), a research institute at the University of the Western Cape, produced over a 20-year period (1995–2015) – the first two decades of its existence – and to measure its visibility and impact using bibliometrics and altmetrics. A survey was also carried out to investigate to what extent PLAAS researchers knew and used social media in their research practice. Scopus and Google Scholar were used as citation indices and Altmetric.com provided Altmetric scores – a measure of impact through social and mainstream media.
The 2013 Election in Zimbabwe: The end of an era
(Routledge Taylor Francis Group, 2013) Raftopoulos, Brian
The July 31st 2013 Elections in Zimbabwe ushered in a renewed period of political domination by ZANU(PF) and its President, Robert Mugabe. This election followed five years of a SADC- facilitated Global Political Agreement (GPA), which was put into place after a contested presidential run-off election in June 2008. The recent elections, which once again established ZANU(PF)’s mastery over the country’s political domain, were passed as free and peaceful by SADC and the African Union but contested by both Movement for Democratic Change parties and the western countries.While there were clear problems in the process leading to the election, it is also apparent that this was not the only factor that determined ZANU(PF)’S ‘victory’. This article provides an analysis of the multiple factors that contributed to the current conjuncture including the different party strategies under the GPA, changes in Zimbabwe’s political economy and interventions at regional and international levels.
45% of black South Africans want land
(Institute for Poverty Land and Agrarian Studies (PLAAS), 2013) Hall, Ruth; Dubb, Alex
A comprehensive study of the demand for land carried out in 2005/6 reveals that one third of black South Africans want access to land for food production, and another 12% want land for a variety of other reasons (Aliber et al, 2006). Nearly half (48%) of those wanting access to land, want only 1 ha or less.
A comparative analysis of the different measures used o determine the size of the informal sector of the South African economy
(University of the Western Cape, 2011) Davids Shafeeqa
Since the concept of informal sector was first introduced in a 1971 analysis of the Kenyan economy, there were debates about the appropriate definition of informal economic activity, as well as about the estimation of its size. I n recent years, there seems to be a universally accepted definition of informal economic activity, which refers to enterprises that are unregistered, including those that employ workers with inferior working conditions and weak employment relationships. However, there i s still no real consensus on the method to estimate the size of this sector, as well as which aspects of the informal economy should be measured (for instance, informal employment, or informal economic activity as proportion of GDP). In South Africa, the informal economy is expected to play a significant role mainly because informal employment is relatively high (as proportion of formal employment). The formal economy is characterised by a slow pace of employment creation and a high rate of unemployment. Yet, according to recent studies the country is an international outlier with regard to the size of informal employment as proportion of total non-agricultural employment. Some researchers believe that informal employment is under-estimated due to shortcomings of the specific method used by Statistics South Africa (which is the official method). Furthermore, there is a Jack of South African studies investigating the specific nature and reasons behind inform a l economic activity, as well as the contribution of the informal economy y to GDP. As informal economy is important to absorb the unemployed who are retrenched and those who are unable to find formal employment due to reasons like a skills mismatch. an economic recession, and there are important linkages between formal and informal economies, which cannot be ignored by policy makers. Hence, various researchers suggested that other approaches to measure the informal economy should be considered . This study provides a critical evaluation of the various methods to estimate the size of the informal economy and of the results of the empirical evidence applying these methods to both South Africa and other (developed and developing) countries. It was found that there is no indication that the informal economy has diminished as a country develops. In contrast, in general, in both developed and developing countries, the size of the informal economies showed an upward trend throughout the years. The results indicate that in the South African context, the informal economy does play a significant role in terms of job creation and contribution to the national product. However, the method used by Statistics South Africa seems to have under-captured informal employment. This has important pol icy implications and it is thus recommended that more research should be done with a specific focus on the estimation of the size of the informal economy as proportion of GDP.
A critical analysis of monitoring and evaluation systems for small and medium enterprises: With specific reference to Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN)
(University of the Western Cape, 2017) Ilori, Emmanuel Olatomide Idemudia; Ile, Isioma Uregu
The significance of small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMEs) development cannot be overemphasized because it plays a considerable role in a nation's economy particularly in developing countries. SMEs' contributions include job creation, expanding the means of sustainable livelihoods and ensuring impartial distribution of wealth amongst citizens. This study evaluates monitoring and evaluation systems, policy and programmes of the Small Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to develop and transform the informal sector of the economy. The main purpose of the establishment of SMEDAN is to facilitate the promotion and development of a structured and effective small and medium enterprises sector that will provide informal employment for unemployed, and enhance sustainable livelihood and economic development in Nigeria. Unemployment and increased poverty levels are key challenges to the government of Nigeria, which has resulted in socio-economic and political unrest across the nation. Against the background of high unemployment rate, especially amongst the youth and the deteriorating fortunes of small and medium businesses in Nigeria, questions can be asked in relation to current initiatives and policies to support SME sector.
A critical assessment of informal networking as contributing to manufacturing firm competitiveness in the clothing cluster of the Western Cape.
(University of the Western Cape, 2011) Peters John Edward
The clothing industry remains an important contributor to the Western Cape economy both in terms of employment and manufacturing. During recent years the sector , viewed and supported by government as a cluster, has been battling against both internal challenges such as low productivity and unwillingness to change, and external factors which include trade liberalisation and cheap imports. Additionally , co operation and interaction among role-players seem to be lacking and ultimately affecting firm and cluster performance. Recent research has focussed on networking within a cluster context. That research questions the assumption that the mere existence of a cluster contributes to firm and industry competitiveness. The extent of informal networking was identified as critical to the competitiveness of firms located within a cluster. The clothing sector of the Western Cape presented an ideal opportunity to consider this link between informal networking and firm performance within a cluster context. Six clothing manufacturing firms comprising four CMTs and two full line manufacturers were selected as respondents. A literature review of past and recent publications on industrial policy, the clothing sector , clusters and networking was conducted. Qualitative data was collected by means of questionnaires and semi structured interviews with the six firms located in the Western Cape. Case studies for each of the six firms were developed. The findings of the research indicated that the successful firms proactively engaged in informal networking in maintaining and improving their competitiveness. The firms that reported limited engagement in informal networking experienced challenges related to productivity and firm growth and were ultimately significantly less competitive. Furthermore, network intensity and network range correlated with firm productivity and growth.
A critical assessment of transformational leadership and organisational commitment in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences in the U Diversity of the Western Cape
(University of the Western Cape, 2011) Ketchiwou Gaelle
Leadership has been proven to be important in every sector and setting. Investigations on leadership in recent years identify transformational leadership style as one of the most prominent leadership style to bring about change. This research seeks to answer two main questions: Is transformational leadership linked to the different dimensions of commitment in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences; and which leadership style is the most appropriate in enhancing organisational commitment in employees of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences? Research has shown that there is an increasing instability of employees in the workplace, which is attributed to the fact that employees' interests are not met. This results in a lack of organisational commitment of employees. This is blamed on the leadership style adopted by leaders in these organisations. This study therefore assesses transformational leadership and organisational commitment in the EMS, UWC. The research uses a quantitative method to collect and analyse data. The Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) and the Three-Component Model (TCM) employee commitment survey were administered to employees of the Faculty of EMS who were selected using a stratified random sampling method. Results show that transformational leadership significantly influences employees' organisational commitment. From the evidence gathered, the research concluded that transformational leadership is distinguished as the most appropriate leadership style for EMS.
A deeper look at the advent of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) and what it means for the marginalized, a social innovation perspective
(Universty of the Western Cape, 2023) Maphukatha, Sihle; Mdleleni, Lwando
The current technological paradigm shift known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), has impacted all parts of the world including the African continent. Developing countries such as South Africa are preparing for the transformative technological changes brought by 4IR. According to Schwab and other scholars 4IR is the fourth major industrial era since the 18th century in which new technologies are fused together with the physical, digital, and biological worlds affecting all disciplines, economies, and industries. South Africa recognizes the potential of adopting 4IR technologies to address issues of poverty, unemployment, and inequality. However, currently South Africa lacks the necessary resources, skills, and infrastructure to fully utilize the opportunities and mitigate the risks associated with these technologies, particularly in the marginalized society. This study seeks to determine the effect of the 4IR on the marginalized society and explore possible roles that can be played by social innovation (SI) to mitigate possible challenges and ensure inclusive participation in the implementation of the current technological revolution. SI is defined as new ideas such as products, services, and models that equally meet social needs and create new social relationships or collaborations that aim to develop society. In the context of this study, marginalized society refers to the demotion of society due to a lack of access to rights, resources, and opportunities.
A framework for data-driven decision-making at a South African higher education institution
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Chomunorwa, Silence
Data-driven decision-making (D3M) has practical benefits to higher education institutions (HEIs), but its adoption and use in South African HEIs are still low. This low adoption is attributed to various reasons based on decision-makers’ perceptions, expectations and experiences of data-driven decision-making tools and techniques. This thesis presents an analysis of data-driven decision-making (D3M) in a South African Higher Education Institution, addressing the need for effective decision-making approaches to enhance student experiences and institutional performance. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that influence the adoption of D3M and explore strategies for integrating D3M tools and approaches to improve educational outcomes. this study aimed to propose a framework for improving the adoption and use of data to make informed decisions at a South African HEI by addressing decision-makers' perceptions, expectations and experiences, which, in turn, will enhance student experiences. This aim is articulated through three primary objectives: first, to explore ways in which D3M can enhance student experiences; second, to investigate the institutional and individual factors affecting the adoption of D3M; and third, to analyse the perceptions, experiences, and expectations of decision-makers in utilising a data- driven approach. The study utilised the exploratory sequential mixed-methods research methodology, incorporating interviews and a survey to gather data from personnel within the institution.
A framework to teach digital innovation skills to South African Information Systems students
(University of the Western Cape, 2017) van den Berg, Carolina Lucia; Breytenbach, Johan
The diffusion of the digital infrastructure is opening up multiple opportunities for innovations to transform business and society. The overall purpose of Information Systems (IS) education is to equip students to use technology to improve business, the environment and society, and digital innovation lies at the heart of this transformation. IS students are instructed in both Information Technology (IT) and business and therefore can be taught to identify the value of technology advances to meet an unmet organisational or societal need. IS students ought to play a leading role as the innovators of the future. Their teaching and learning environment needs to prepare them for this uncertain, complex and ambiguous world. They have to move beyond the current horizons of knowledge and skills within a specific discipline and develop a "sense of self" in order to be adaptable which requires a curriculum that is "future proof". The aim of this research study is to develop a framework to teach digital business innovation to South African students in Information Systems (IS).
A framework to teach digital innovation skills to South African Information Systems students
(University of the Western Cape, 2017) van den Berg, Carolina Lucia; Breytenbach, Johan
The diffusion of the digital infrastructure is opening up multiple opportunities for innovations to transform business and society. The overall purpose of Information Systems (IS) education is to equip students to use technology to improve business, the environment and society, and digital innovation lies at the heart of this transformation. IS students are instructed in both Information Technology (IT) and business and therefore can be taught to identify the value of technology advances to meet an unmet organisational or societal need. IS students ought to play a leading role as the innovators of the future. Their teaching and learning environment needs to prepare them for this uncertain, complex and ambiguous world. They have to move beyond the current horizons of knowledge and skills within a specific discipline and develop a "sense of self" in order to be adaptable which requires a curriculum that is "future proof". The aim of this research study is to develop a framework to teach digital business innovation to South African students in Information Systems (IS).
A good reputation must be earned, but how? Examining the role of relationship communication and employee skills in retail banking
(Routledge, 2025) Roberts- Lombard Mornay; Petzer Daniel
This study examines relationship communication and employee skills as antecedents to corporate image and the latter’s relationship with corporate reputation. It also considers the mediating role of corporate image and moderating roles of customer characteristics, such as duration of support and customer spending. Using purposive and quota sampling, responses were collected from 352 customers of South African banks using a self-administered questionnaire. Mplus version 8.5 tested the direct effects proposed, while the indirect effects were tested with the Hayes Process macro for SPSS. The study assists emerging market banks to understand how corporate image influences corporate reputation perceptions, based upon the inclusion of selected corporate image antecedents. It also emphasizes the importance of duration of support and monthly spending in the relationships between corporate image and its selected antecedents.
A panel data analysis on the formal-informal sector linkages in South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2017) Nackerdien, Moegammad Faeez; Yu, Derek
There are few studies on linkages between the formal and informal sectors in South Africa. This study explores the types of linkages between the informal and formal sectors with empirical research concentrating on labour churning (movements between the informal and formal sectors). Using National Income Dynamics Study (NIDS 2008-2014) data from four waves, individuals are classified into labour market statuses based on the Heintz & Posel (2008) methodology. This study conducts labour market transitional matrices and finds formal employment to provide the most stability in terms of employment. The main focus is on the following three groups of employed: working in the formal sector in all four waves; working in the informal sector in all four waves; moving between the formal and informal sectors across all four waves. For those always working in the formal sector, they are predominantly females and Africans. Those who always work in the formal sector are most educated, while those always working in the informal sector are associated with low educational attainment. The descriptive statistics are followed by econometric analysis: in terms of attaining employment, being male and a higher educational attainment significantly increase the probability of finding employment. In terms of sustaining work, the same two covariates significantly increase the probability of sustaining work. Being the head of household is also a key covariate in significantly increasing the probability in maintaining and sustaining employment. In terms of transitioning to formal employment, being male, an increase in education and living with a partner (married or unmarried) significantly increase the probability of moving to formal sector employment. In addition, multinomial logistic regressions are conducted, and the results indicate that being a male significantly increases the probability of working in the formal sector for all four waves. Africans are also significantly more likely to be employed informally for all four waves and an increase in the years of education significantly increases the probability of being formally employed for all four waves. The household-level variables reveal that being the head household significantly increases the probability of being employed (especially formally employed for all four waves) while having children has a negative impact on being employed for all four waves.
A policy and regulatory framework for stablecoins in South Africa: Implications for South African Reserve Bank.
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Rooplall, Videshree
The digital revolution has reshaped the financial landscape, with cryptoassets, including stablecoins, standing out as a pivotal innovation. Anchored to traditional fiat currencies or commodities, stablecoins promise stability, efficiency, and enhanced accessibility in financial transactions. However, their rapid adoption necessitates robust regulatory frameworks in order to ensure financial stability, consumer protection, and financial integrity. Within South Africa’s existing framework, stablecoins lack a specific regulatory foundation as a means of payment. To bridge this gap, this thesis conducts a thorough review of stablecoin definitions, design features, use cases, and the unique risks these pose when compared to traditional financial instruments. Given the interconnectedness of South Africa’s financial system, addressing these risks proves critical. The research identifies regulatory gaps by examining South Africa’s fintech institutional setup and recommendations from international bodies and South Africa’s Intergovernmental Fintech Working Group. In response, it proposes a principles-based policy and regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers and service providers. This framework aims to address deficiencies and capitalise on opportunities for improvement. In order to foster stablecoin growth aligned with technological advancements, the South African Reserve Bank and other policymakers could benefit from implementing the proposed regulatory principles. By adhering to global standards, regulatory authorities can harness stablecoin opportunities while mitigating inherent risks.
A portfolio approach to managing information systems and technology services - moving from applications portfolio to service portfolio.
(Univeristy of the Western Cape, 2004) Mjebeza, Thando G.
To minimise costs, most organisations tend to outsource support functions that do not add considerable value. Through effective management of operations Information Systems and Technology (IS/IT) functions have been striving to improve to avoid being outsourced. Effective management has been in a form of a cycle of measuring and improving the effectiveness of the operations of the organisation. The question is what do you improve? Resources are scarce therefore; managers need to find a way of prioritising needs for improvement. Classic literature reveals that most IS/IT functions have concentrated on improving tangible support (e.g. software, hardware, manuals, etc) and later processes that produce tangle support (e.g. systems development life cycle, project management, etc). Lately more effort is being focused to managing intangible support in a form of services ( e.g. answering questions, installations, fixing PC's/desktop support, etc) to improve overall IS/IT support. This is noticed in literature written on IS/IT service management transcending from efforts originating from the field of Services Marketing.
A public participation perspective of the process of post-settlement support in Elandskloof
(University of the Western Cape, 2017) Titus, Andries; Esau, Michelle
Since the dawn of South African democracy in 1994, extensive laws and policies have been introduced to facilitate transformation in the political, social and economic spheres. While South Africa has been lauded world-wide for its detailed and sophisticated constitution, many cases attest to the challenges of implementing the stipulations of the constitution, laws and policies. Arguably, constitutional rights and entitlements do not automatically result in a better life for ordinary citizens post-apartheid. Moreover, restitution processes towards addressing the atrocities of apartheid are fraught with challenges. The process of land restitution is an example that illustrates the numerous challenges in implementing laws and public policies in South Africa. Restitution is one of the three pillars of land reform - the other two are land redistribution and land tenure reform - that were introduced by the African National Congress (ANC) -led government to secure land rights to black people in South Africa. Land reform is essential to bring about political and economic development and the South African government has committed itself to transforming land ownership to reflect the democratic realities and to redressing the history of dispossession and exclusion suffered by the black majority of South Africans. While the transfer of land and settlement of claims have been processed gradually, growing evidence shows that this does not simply translate into development, poverty reduction or reconciliation.
A qualitative inquiry on the role of microfinance on smallholder farmers’ sustainability in rural Zimbabwe
(Universty of the Western Cape, 2022) Machingambi, Jeremiah
Smallholder farmers are generally excluded from formal financial systems and tend to have limited financial intermediation options. Furthermore, from banks' perspectives, smallholder farmers’ lack of collateral makes them risky customers in that they are viewed as not being able to repay loans. Against this background, many smallholder farmers are resorting to microfinance to secure capital. This, therefore, raises the question as to whether microfinance is a panacea to smallholder farmers’ access to capital woes. In the extant literature there are mixed results in terms of explaining the role of microfinance in terms of stimulating the growth and sustainability of the smallholder farming sector. This naturally constitute the research gap that this thesis sought to address.
A relational bureaucracy framework for meaningful internal stakeholder engagement post-Covid 19
(AOSIS (pty) Ltd, 2024) Schutte, Nico E; van der Sluis, Lidewey E. C; Barkhuizen, Emmerentia N.
Orientation: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic forced organisations to rapidly redesign workplace structures to adapt to a changed and disrupted business world and improve stakeholder relationships. The relational bureaucracy theory (RBT) provides a valuable foundation for increasing stakeholder participation. Research purpose: We investigate how a relational bureaucracy’s organisational structure promotes internal stakeholders’ involvement in a post-Covid workplace. Motivation for the study: Limited frameworks illustrate how a newly emergent relational bureaucratic structure can enhance stakeholder involvement and engagement in the new world of work. Research approach/design and method: The researchers followed a literature review to derive shared meanings in constructing an RBT framework for promoting stakeholder involvement. Main findings: According to our preliminary research, the organisational type known as the engaged ambassador could be named the relational bureaucratic stakeholder prototype. Seven zones crucial to the business’s overall operation are identified in the stakeholder landscape. Additionally, we illustrate the relational bureaucracy design ideas that promote stakeholder participation. Practical/managerial implications: We propose that organisations could benefit from stakeholder engagement through interpersonal coordination mechanisms that create, maintain and improve stakeholder relationships through strategic human resource management (HRM) frameworks and RBT. We further argue that a relational bureaucracy’s structure raises stakeholder participation for organisational leadership, coordination and coproduction. Contribution/value-add: This article integrates some main effects of relational bureaucratic theory to provide a landscape for the needs of internal stakeholders in a disrupted workplace.
A sample survey: describing community development practitioners training in provincial districts in South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Mpontseng, Constance Kumeke
Community development is a multidisciplinary approach aimed at addressing socio-economic disparities and fostering transformative change in communities. The practice of community development is guided by core values and principles and requires specialised knowledge, skills, and attributes for professionalisation. In South Africa, the Department of Social Development (DSD) has implemented a standardised training programme for Community Development Practitioners (CDPs) to ensure quality in practice. However, gaps persist in training effectiveness and alignment with practical needs. This study examined the impact of the DSD CDP training programme on practice performance, focusing on its alignment with internationally and nationally recognised norms and its capacity to equip practitioners with the practical skills necessary for impactful community development. Grounded in theoretical frameworks, including the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) approach, the Capability Approach (CA), and the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA). This study utilised these perspectives as a conceptual lens for assessing the effectiveness of the training programme. A sample survey design was deployed, using purposeful sampling to select 125 CDPs across all nine South African provinces, capturing diverse perspectives. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics alongside a developed Data Integration Matrix (DIM) to assess the alignment of the CDP training programme with international and national community development practice standards.
A study into the subjective lived experiences of transgender employees in Cape Town
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Miller, Robyn Caitlin
This study investigates the subjective lived experiences of transgender employees in Cape Town, focusing on their unique workplace challenges and perspectives. Utilising a descriptive phenomenological approach, qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with transgender individuals, employed in various industries across the region. Phenomenological thematic analysis identified key themes related to workplace inclusivity, discrimination, coping strategies, and support systems. The research employed a descriptive phenomenological design, conducting eleven semi-structured interviews via online platforms such as Teams, Google Meet, and WhatsApp. Participants were selected through non-probability convenience sampling. The analysis revealed that transgender employees frequently encounter workplace discrimination, insufficient inclusivity in policies and practices, and the critical importance of support systems and coping strategies. Key themes included gender identity acceptance, societal perceptions, workplace safety, and the role of allies.

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