Magister Artium (Development Studies) - MA (DVS)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10566/12957

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Towards a conflict-free society: the role of environmental governance in enhancing communal peace and security in Nigeria
(University of the Western Cape, 2026) Olajuwon, Timileyin Gabriel; Dinbabo, Mulugeta Fitamo
Peace and security are fundamental to any given society. The importance of this notion has been enumerated in scholarly works, citing its impact on human societal settings in general. However, some societies still face issues with communal conflict and resource allocation, which limit the importance and achievement of peace and security. The study investigates the importance of environmental governance in improving and promoting communal peace and security. The study argues that environmental governance serves as a preventive measure by ensuring specific standards in resource allocation, thereby eliminating ambiguity, resolving conflict, and promoting peace. Additionally, the study argues that while peace and security are necessary, environmental governance cannot be ignored in the quest for sustainable development and a peaceful society. A mixed-methods approach was used to gather relevant information on the study's objectives. Using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, data were collected from a total of 120 participants, with 100 questionnaires (of which 90 provided usable responses) and 20 semi-structured interviews, all of whom were residents of the selected communities. To comprehensively understand the research objective, this study anchors its research on environmental peacebuilding and institutional analysis and development theories. The findings show that environmental governance has only a moderate impact on communal peace and security in these communities, and that policies are perceived as preventive but inadequate for resolving long-standing disputes. In the end, the study draws up recommendations on how environmental governance can be improved to achieve the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030.
An assessment of the food garden project in poverty reduction in South Africa: a case study of mountain to ocean food garden project in Elgin, Grabouw
(Univesity of the Western Cape, 2012) Sakah, Nsah Edwin; Nadasen, Krishnavelh
The objective of this study was to investigate the role of Food Garden Projects in poverty reduction. The study was based on the assumption that interventions such as food gardens, if fully exploited and utilized, can reduce the vulnerability of rural households to poverty by empowering them to use available land to grow their crops and develop their own income generating interventions. The specific objectives of this study were to, 1. Provide an in-depth analysis of the socio-economic impacts of the MTO Food Garden Project initiative on the beneficiaries. 2. Identify challenges that the MTO Food Garden Project is facing with respect to their poverty reduction goals. 3. Provide recommendations on how Food Garden Projects can be promoted and enhanced in the Elgin Learning Foundation
Assessing the process of participatory monitoring and evaluation: a case study of the Tada Shonga irrigation project, Nigeria
(University of the Western Cape, 2014) Adeniyi, Daniel Adeoluwa; Dinbabo, Mulugeta
The importance of Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation (PME) lies in its ability to engage diverse stakeholders in the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of projects and programmes. PME is a procedure and activity whereby stakeholders share control over the content, process and results of the M&E activity. This study assessed the PME process of the Tada Shonga Irrigation Project, in Nigeria. In line with the theoretical and conceptual frameworks of participatory development and community-driven M&E respectively, the study analysed the project's PME process and its relationship with project outcomes. It also examined the difference that existed in the perception of the PME process and project outcomes among farmer groups. Both quantitative and qualitative methods of research were used for the study and measurement of key variables was made. While the systematic random sampling technique was utilised to collect data for the quantitative research, purposive sampling was used to select respondents for semi-structured interviews in the qualitative research. A total of 110 questionnaires were administered, out of which 103 were returned, and 5 respondents interviewed for the study. Responses collected from questionnaires administered were subjected to statistical analysis and indexes were developed to measure the PME process and outcomes of the project. The study identified outcomes choosing for M&E, selection of M&E indicators and data collection for M&E as the PME activities that beneficiaries were mostly involved in while there was limited beneficiary involvement in initial designing of M&E, data analysis for M&E as well as decisions taken after M&E findings. Further analysis established a significant difference among the farmer groups, in their perceptions of their involvement in the PME process. However, there was no significant difference in the perceptions of the outcomes of the PME process and the project among the farmer groups.
Exploring the impact of smartphone addiction on physical health and academic performance among university undergraduate students in the Western Cape
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Spandiel, Sulene
Smartphone addiction has become an escalating concern, particularly among university students who are heavily reliant on their devices for academic, social, and entertainment purposes. This study explores the impact of smartphone addiction on the physical health and academic performance of undergraduate students in the Western Cape, South Africa. A qualitative approach using secondary data was employed, focusing on thematic analysis to uncover how addiction manifests, the related health issues, and the resulting academic challenges. The study identified three key themes: the manifestation of smartphone addiction, its physical health impacts, and its effects on academic performance. Smartphone addiction manifests in constant use and distraction, with students reporting frequent use during inappropriate times such as lectures. Apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok were identified as major contributors to compulsive behaviours, fulfilling social and entertainment needs, as explained by Uses and Gratification Theory. Physical health impacts included eye strain, sleep disturbances, and other physical symptoms such as headaches and neck pain. The Media Systems Dependency Theory suggests that overreliance on smartphones contributes to these physical ailments, with students experiencing deteriorating visual health and disrupted circadian rhythms. A lack of focus and productivity hindered their academic performance. The academic consequences were particularly severe, with participants reporting difficulty concentrating during lectures and study sessions due to constant notifications and distractions. Several students experienced declining grades and missed deadlines. Checking Habit Theory explains how habitual phone checking during academic activities can lead to cognitive fatigue and procrastination, thereby exacerbating academic struggles.
Assessing the nexus between household socioeconomic status and stunted-growth recovery among post-infant and early-adolescent children in South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Xakaza, Hlumisa Belinda
Stunting, a condition characterised by hindered physical and cognitive development, results from inadequate nutrition, recurrent infections, and limited psychosocial stimulation during early childhood. It has long-term health, cognitive, and economic consequences such as affected individuals earning over 20% less than average in adulthood, reinforcing cycles of poverty. Global efforts have prioritized reducing stunting, particularly during the first 1,000 days of life. However, adolescence – another critical developmental window – receives little to no policy and investment attention in South Africa. While stunting prevalence is well documented, limited research explores how household socioeconomic conditions influence growth outcomes beyond infancy, into adolescence. This study aims to address this critical knowledge gap by investigating how household socio-economic conditions influence stunting status beyond infancy and early adolescence. Using longitudinal data from the National Income Dynamics Study (NIDS) in South Africa, the analysis explores associations between household socio-economic status (HHSES) and child stunting trajectories. HHSES was measured through a composite index derived from principal component analysis (PCA) based on household assets and access to basic services. Height-for-age Z-scores (HAZ) were analysed across five waves, tracking a total of 485 children from age 2 to early adolescence at age 11. Children identified as stunted at age two showed marked improvements in linear growth over time. Longitudinal analysis (transition matrix) revealed that about half of the children initially classified as severely stunted (HAZ < -3) had recovered by the final wave, while between 60–80% of those moderately stunted at baseline (2
Student-worker alliances in the making of a social movement: narratives and debates of outsourcing in #feesmustfall
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Maputuma, Siphamandla
This thesis examines the student-workers alliances, in particular the outsourced workers, during the #FeesMustFall (FMF) movement at the University of the Western Cape (UWC). The study reveals how the movement fostered solidarity among students and workers while advocating for transformation within the university. While much has been written about student activism during #FMF at various universities, there is limited research on how the movement built social alliances with workers at the University of the Western Cape. This thesis addresses this gap by documenting the narratives of key stakeholders, focusing on how #FMF influenced the university’s outsourcing and the broader struggle for workers’ rights within the context of South Africa's neoliberal higher education landscape. Very few studies have focused on such alliances and how campus-based student struggles are tied to broader societal and workers struggles. The study employed a qualitative research methodology, utilising both primary and secondary data collection methods. Primary data was collected through interviews with workers and student activists who were involved in the movement, who provided first-hand account of their experiences.. The findings ascertain that #FMF played a critical role in shaping discourse around labour practices, specifically outsourced workers. While the movement was unable to entirely abolish outsourcing at certain universities, it significantly influenced the university policies by advocating for improved conditions for workers. The thesis concludes that #FMF’s legacy at UWC lies not only in its advocacy for free, decolonised education but also in its contribution to labour justice, which is a key aspect in the movement’s broader challenge on neo-liberalism in post-apartheid South Africa.
Evaluating the effectiveness and relevance of short skills training offered by agricultural colleges to farmers in the Western Cape, Karoo region, South Africa
(University of the Westen Cape, 2025) Tuku, Akhona
The agricultural sector is a vital contributor to South Africa's economy, food security, and rural employment, particularly in the Western Cape. However, farmers in the semi-arid Karoo region face persistent challenges, including climate variability, rising input costs, and water scarcity, which threaten productivity and sustainability. Agricultural Training Institutes (ATIs), such as the Elsenburg College's Oudtshoorn decentralised centre, are pivotal in addressing these challenges through short skills training programs designed to enhance farmers' knowledge and practices. The importance of agricultural education and training cannot be overlooked as it is vital for economic development and food self-sufficiency, for poverty alleviation and for environmental protection. The purpose of the study is to investigate the relevance, effectiveness and efficiency of delivering of short- specialised programmes to small holder farmers by the Oudtshoorn decentralised centre (which is part of the Elsenburg College). This study, therefore, evaluates the effectiveness and relevance of short skills training offered by agricultural colleges to farmers in the Western Cape, Karoo region, South Africa. The study assesses the impact of these training programs on farmers' knowledge, skills, productivity, and profitability, and explores the relevance of the training to the specific needs of farmers and the agricultural sector.
Evaluating the effectiveness and relevance of short skills training offered by agricultural Colleges to farmers in the Western Cape, Karoo region, South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2026) Tuku, Akhona
The agricultural sector is a vital contributor to South Africa's economy, food security, and rural employment, particularly in the Western Cape. However, farmers in the semi-arid Karoo region face persistent challenges, including climate variability, rising input costs, and water scarcity, which threaten productivity and sustainability. Agricultural Training Institutes (ATIs), such as the Elsenburg College's Oudtshoorn decentralised centre, are pivotal in addressing these challenges through short skills training programs designed to enhance farmers' knowledge and practices. The importance of agricultural education and training cannot be overlooked as it is vital for economic development and food self-sufficiency, for poverty alleviation and for environmental protection. The purpose of the study is to investigate the relevance, effectiveness and efficiency of delivering of short-specialised programmes to small holder farmers by the Oudtshoorn decentralised centre (which is part of the Elsenburg College). This study, therefore, evaluates the effectiveness and relevance of short skills training offered by agricultural colleges to farmers in the Western Cape, Karoo region, South Africa. The study assesses the impact of these training programs on farmers' knowledge, skills, productivity, and profitability, and explores the relevance of the training to the specific needs of farmers and the agricultural sector. The findings of this study will inform the development of more effective and relevant training programs that address the needs of farmers and contribute to the growth and development of the agricultural sector in the region. Key findings are expected to reveal the capacity of the college to deliver relevant training, the perceived impact on farmers' practices, and the existence of any skills mismatches. The study identify critical gaps in current training offerings and provide evidence-based recommendations for enhancing program design, delivery, and relevance. By doing so, this research seeks to contribute to improved agricultural training policy and practice, ultimately supporting the resilience and competitiveness of the farming sector in the Western Cape Karoo region
Public participation and service delivery: A case study of Langa community in Cape Town, South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Mohmmed, Nahid Siddig Ahmed
This study examines the role of developmental local government in involving the community to improve service delivery in Langa township in Cape Town, South Africa. According to academic research review, there are contributions of public participation in service provision. South Africa has developed a legal framework to strengthen public participation and involve the residents in the decision-making process. However, despite the legal frameworks and Batho Pele principles yet, Langa is an urban informal settlement, historically disadvantaged and more than half of its population does not access their basic rights and lives in unlivable dwellings. Furthermore, there is a need for community consultation for better decision-making. Therefore, public participation has different forms such as institutionalised spaces and citizenry-designed participatory spaces. Hence, this study aimed to assess the extent to which the community has been involved in the decision-making process. The overall aim of this study was achieved by evaluating the level of service delivery and forms of participatory structure in the community of Langa, as well as identifying factors that affect community participation and their well-being in Langa.
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.
Assessing the impact of the sustainable development goals (SDGS) on the white paper on citizenship, immigration and refugee protection in South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Mguye, Mbasa Patrice
This study assesses the impact of the migrant-specific targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection in South Africa. The aim is to understand the influence of global goals on a national immigration policy and to assess the feasibility of the new policy as a tool for realizing sustainable development for immigrants. The study was conducted within the framework of the human rights-based approach (HRBA). The HRBA is relevant for study of global migration governance and immigration policy, since it promotes the protection of migrants’ rights and governments’ responsibility towards the safety, well-being and development of migrants. The study adopted a multimethod approach to qualitative data analysis, applying content analysis, document analysis and textual analysis research methods in relation to the White Paper and secondary sources to the subject matter.
Exploring intrahousehold resource allocation and food security in Belhar, South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Shinta, Nombulelo
The household represents the frontline of survival and structure in which deprivation could be examined. Poverty rarely isolates itself to individuals, but rather spreads across shared expenses, roofs, and dinner tables. This study explores intrahousehold resource allocation and its effects on food security in South African households in Belhar, Cape Town. It investigates the distribution of household resources, such as income and assets. The study also explores the state of food security at the household level and its association with caregiving responsibilities, with a focus on gender and power dynamics. The study examines the factors that influence the distribution of resources within homes; evaluates actual experiences of household members in obtaining food; and examines how gender roles, cultural norms, and financial limitations influence the results of food security in Belhar families.
An analysis of the relationship between economic growth and health outcomes in Sudan from 2000-2020
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Abdelsalam, Safa
Health emerges as a pivotal element of human capital, and therefore, this study analysed the relationship between economic growth and health outcomes in Sudan from 2000-2020. The study explored the trends in health outcomes namely child mortality rate, fertility rates and life expectancy and determined other factors that may affect its economic growth, such as education. The study measured the extent to which the Sudanese government has promoted health and provided evidence-based recommendations to policymakers. Health outcomes impact the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as one indicator of economic growth. Sudan's health care system has been destroyed by ongoing war and conflicts.
The influence of urban agricultural ngos on food security and livelihoods in Cape Town: a comparison between Abalimi Bezekhaya and Oranjezicht city farm
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Samodien, Thaakira
Urban agriculture (UA) is a multifaceted strategy with the dual purpose of enhancing food security and income generation. In the Global North, UA commonly stems from leisure, activism, community cohesion, and environmental concerns. In contrast, the Global South, particularly among urban poor communities, relies heavily on UA to meet food needs and generate income. Collaborations between governments and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in various cities are often employed to address food security and poverty, promoting resilient food cities. However, in the City of Cape Town, limited cooperation has been observed between local government and urban agricultural NGOs. Although the literature predominantly highlights UA’s role in mitigating food insecurity and augmenting incomes, it has also been shown to deliver additional benefits and improved livelihood outcomes. These include increased human capital, social cohesion, improved health and well-being, and empowerment.
Using the water, energy and food nexus to build resilient home gardens in Gugulethu, Cape Town
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Zikhali, Khanyisile
The 21st century cities are faced with water, energy and food resource insecurity, which necessitates the need to build resilient cities. Resource depletion and scarcity are coupled with urbanization, globalization, climate change, and population growth which puts additional pressure on sectors that are already facing unprecedented changes. More and more people in the world are living in water scarce countries, with limited access to sufficient energy resources, and experiencing food security. The water, energy and food nexus (WEF) emerged in 2011 as a framework to help achieve water, energy and food security, while reducing tradeoffs between the three sectors, and further promoting the increase of synergies. The main premise of the water, energy and food nexus is the interconnectedness and interdependence of these sectors on each other. Using this framework will equip countries and communities to manage these resources effectively while preserving them for future generations. The above cited pressures faced by communities necessitates the need to build resilient cities and communities that can withstand the above cited challenges and thrive and continue to provide resources to people. Recent events such as the COVID-19 pandemic revealed the unpreparedness of many countries, and exposed the lack of resilience of crucial sectors, such as food. Millions of people in various communities experienced hunger and food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic, which propelled some people to start backyard farming in order to meet their immediate need of food. The initiative to start backyard gardening revealed the resilience of gardeners as they were able to withstand the harsh effects of the pandemic, such as unemployment and increased food prices. Backyard gardens have long existed; however, little attention and support has been given to backyard gardening as a possible tool to achieve food security and enhance food systems resilience. The small number gardeners that are active in the country and in the City of Cape Town face a huge challenge of lack of adequate land, which limits their prospects of achieving food security and generating an income. This limited access to land has not been adequately addressed in literature and practically through policies. This study aims to close the with one focus group discussion that included 5 participants of Gugulethu Urban Food Forest Initiative. The findings of this study reveal that backyard farming has the potential to contribute to food security; however, it falls short of this due to challenges such as lack of land that limit the quantities of food that can be produced.
Analysing urban agriculture through the prism of the water, energy, food nexus approach: A case study of Gugulethu urban food forest initiative (GUFFI), Cape Town, South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Phophi, Khalushi Musedzaphanda
Food systems in developed and developing countries are under pressure due to climate change, among other factors. Food shortages, price hikes, and unsustainable practices are all occurring in cities around the world, indicating a need for more diverse means of producing and receiving food within urban food systems. Urban agriculture is proposed as a practical approach to achieving more sustainable and resilient urban ecosystems through policy growth. A wide range of research has been done on urban agriculture in terms of food security and income. However, very little research has investigated the relationship between urban agriculture and the water, food, and energy (WEF) nexus. Thus, this study aims to investigate how urban agriculture can be studied in the context of the WEF nexus approach as a strategy to fill this gap in the literature. Urban agricultural practices in South Africa are now being considered as an opportunity to produce food in urban areas where it was not previously possible. Urban agriculture demands water and energy for the production and transportation of food. However, water scarcity and access to energy are major challenges in South Africa. Thus, studying how water, energy and food are linked in the process of urban agriculture provided a solution of how when there is both water and energy shortages how can urban agriculture be achieved. This study analysed urban agriculture through the WEF nexus, with focus on understanding the complex interconnections and interdependencies between these resources within urban agriculture. The study also demonstrates the importance of community-led initiatives in addressing challenges of food insecurity and environmental sustainability in urban areas or townships. Furthermore, this study addressed the following research questions: How does GUFFI’s urban agriculture initiative promotes food security, how important are WEF nexus resources such as water, energy, and food in the success of UA and how important are WEF resources in promoting urban agriculture initiatives that lead to the greening of Gugulethu. This study used a qualitative research methodology, with Gugulethu Urban Food Forest Initiative as the selected case study. Semi-structured interview, participant observation, focus group and questionnaire were the methods used to collect data. The findings of this thesis highlight the interconnected nature between WEF nexus and urban agriculture. Moreover, the case study demonstrated the importance of community involvement and empowerment in driving sustainable urban agriculture initiatives, emphasizing the role of social and environmental justice in creating resilient food system. The study provided valuable insights into the key strategies and policy recommendations necessary to scale up and replicate uccessful urban agriculture initiatives in other urban contexts, contributing to the global effort of achieving sustainable urban development.
Navigating unemployment: exploring resilience and aspiration among educated unemployed youth in Cape Town, South Africa.
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Payi, Vusie
In South Africa, over the past decade more people have attained higher education, with the percentage of South African adults with a degree increasing from 5.1% in 2010 to 5.9% today. However, despite increasingly gaining tertiary degrees, many cannot access employment related to their qualifications, and South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world. This challenge of youth unemployment continues, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, which took place right before this research was conducted. The study examined how a group of educated young men in Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa navigate unemployment, by exploring how they articulate their resilience and aspirations. As the young unemployed graduates of the study share, getting employment is considered the fundamental key to fulfilling aspirations. The study employed qualitative research design utilising non-probability sampling, in particular purposive and snowballing sampling, involving 7 male participants who had moved from elsewhere in the country and graduated from a tertiary institution in Bellville, and had been searching for a job for 3 months to 3 years after obtaining their academic qualifications.
Community perceptions on the impact of education in reducing poverty: case of Vrededorp, Gauteng.
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Sintu, Sanda
Education is a vital instrument for poverty alleviation, but its usefulness in marginalised populations is limited by societal barriers. In South Africa's disadvantaged communities, historical legacies of apartheid and persisting socioeconomic inequities have hindered the potential of education to uplift individuals from poverty, as suggested by human capital theory. This has affected how community members perceive the relationship between education and poverty reduction. Given this background, the study aims to examine the community’s perceptions on the impact of education in reducing poverty: Case of Vrededorp, Gauteng. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, consisting of a standardised questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews to get insight into the community’s perceptions, opinions and experiences concerning education and poverty reduction. The study results suggest a contradictory narrative: while education is viewed as a road to economic mobility, its impact is hampered by inadequate school infrastructure, insufficient resources and high unemployment rates among educated people.
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.
Participation levels of young women in municipal civic public participation processes in Cape Town
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Williams, Abigail Jacobs
This study aimed to understand the challenges and barriers that young women aged 18 to 25 from three communities in the Cape Town Metro, namely, Manenberg, Mitchells Plain and Bellville between the ages of 18 to 25, encounter when engaging in local government participation processes. The study sought to closely examine the potential outcomes for both these young women and the larger community in which they live if their participation is given priority and integrated into local government processes, procedures, and interventions. This study followed a qualitative research approach that attempted to be open-ended and adaptable in order to seek and comprehend how individuals who participated in the study perceived the research topic given the communities that they reside in and their local government contexts. Two research instruments were used, i.e. in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with the participants. From the literature reviewed, it becomes clear that the implications of not ensuring the participation of young women in local government processes that require their voice is detrimental to any community, particularly given the growing youth bulge in South Africa as a whole.

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