Development In South Africa Research Articles

Assessing the prospects of digital infrastructure in promoting rural economic development in South Africa

Assessing the prospects of digital infrastructure in promoting rural economic development in South Africa

The impact of globalisation on industrial development in South Africa: the mediating role of institutional quality

The impact of globalisation on industrial development in South Africa: the mediating role of institutional quality

Empowering communities: the role of housing cooperatives in alleviating urban housing crisis

BackgroundThe urban housing crisis in South Africa’s metropolitan inner cities has escalated into a significant socio-economic and public health concern. This complex issue, driven by a combination of factors, calls for innovative and inclusive solutions. Housing cooperatives offer a promising approach to addressing this challenge. Therefore, it is essential to explore the potential of housing cooperatives as a viable, community-centered alternative for housing provision.ObjectiveThe primary aim of this paper is to examine the transformative potential of housing cooperatives in addressing the urban housing crisis. Additionally, it seeks to explore how housing cooperatives can enhance socio-economic inclusivity and empower communities in urban environments.MethodsTwo primary electronic databases, Sabinet and Science Direct, were searched for relevant articles using a combination of key terms related to cooperatives (e.g., housing cooperative, policy, history, developing world, sustainability, community empowerment, social capital, and South Africa). Google Scholar was also utilized to supplement the database searches, and bibliographies of selected articles were reviewed for additional relevant sources. Data from the identified articles were abstracted, analyzed, and used to explore the critical role of cooperatives as a sustainable solution for addressing the housing crisis and promoting social cohesion in South Africa’s metropolitan areas.ResultsA total of 211 records were identified, with 85 ultimately included in the review. The literature indicates that housing cooperatives have the potential to drive social change, foster community resilience, and support equitable urban development. They can be utilized not only to expand access to affordable housing but also to promote social cohesion, community empowerment, and socio-economic development in South Africa. When implemented sustainably, housing cooperatives can help alleviate housing shortages while strengthening community empowerment and social cohesion.ConclusionPolicymakers and those in positions of power to allocate resources in urban housing development should consider housing cooperatives as a viable solution to the challenges faced by South African metropolitan cities.

Paving the Way for Sustainability: Can Green Infrastructure Drive Energy Efficiency in South Africa?

The persistent energy inefficiency in South Africa, driven by inconsistent renewable energy policies, weak institutional frameworks, and environmental degradation, thus underscores the dire need for an exhaustive evaluation of green infrastructure development. This paper explores the relationship between green infrastructure and energy efficiency between 2000 and 2023, using the energy ladder theory to analyze how the quality of institutions moderates such a relationship, which was analyzed by the Prais-Winsten estimation method. Major findings reveal that renewable energy generation and hydropower contribute to a significant reduction in carbon emission intensity and primary energy consumption, while forest cover and waste management contribute to improved energy efficiency. In fact, the institutional quality turns out to be a crucial moderator, reinforcing the positive impacts of green infrastructure, mainly renewable energy investment and hydropower development. The Granger causality test also presents a two-way complicated relationship between energy intensity and green energy investments, suggesting the interaction of energy efficiency policy. The study ends with the suggestion that reforms in institutional setup are a must to capture the environmental and economic potential of green infrastructure. Embedding policies of renewable energy expansion within a package of governance reforms is key to driving sustainable energy development in South Africa.

Rural–urban migration and skill development in South Africa: a propensity score matching analysis

PurposeThis study investigated the effect of rural–urban migration on skill development in South Africa, focusing on the role of educational attainment and occupational development in shaping individuals’ skill profiles.Design/methodology/approachNational Income Dynamics Study (NIDS) data was used. Propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to obtain a matched group of rural residents and rural-to-urban migrants with similar probabilities of migrating from rural to urban areas. Linear regression analyses were performed after the PSM analysis.FindingsThe results of the regression analysis after PSM indicated that rural-to-urban migrants reported enhanced skills development compared to rural residents. Sensitivity analysis using different logarithms yielded similar results. Promoting access to education and vocational training in rural areas can mitigate migration and enhance local skill development.Originality/valueThis study addresses a significant gap in the literature by examining the impact of rural–urban migration on skills development, a topic rarely explored in existing literature. PSM provides robust insights into how migration influences human capital by focusing on education and occupational development.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-09-2024-0745

Challenges and pathways to inclusive low-carbon development in South Africa: a political settlements analysis

ABSTRACT Over the course of the twentieth century South Africa developed a highly energy- and capital-intensive industrial structure that has underpinned a high-emissions, low-employment development pathway. While post-apartheid industrial and climate policies have been introduced to shift the country towards more inclusive low-carbon development, the effective implementation of these policies has been limited. This article draws on Mushtaq Khan’s political settlements framework to analyse the political economy dynamics that have constrained policy implementation and explores pathways to more inclusive and sustainable development. The analysis shows how the post-apartheid government inherited a power configuration and supporting set of institutions that has constrained effective policy implementation. We argue that in order to achieve a successful transition, policymakers need to consider the distributional impacts of their policies in light of the underlying political settlement and sequence their interventions accordingly. Following from this, a case is made for a green industrial policy that builds supportive coalitions around a just transition, gradually shifting the balance of power towards inclusive decarbonisation.

Artisan development in the AEC industry: strategies for attracting, transitioning and retaining workers

This paper investigates the prospects for artisan development in South Africa’s Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Despite the vital economic contributions of this industry, attracting new entrants, aiding their transition into the workforce, and retaining skilled artisans remain significant challenges. The research focuses on strategies for addressing these issues, specifically within the context of South Africa’s Institute for National Development of Learnerships, Employment Skills, and Labour Assessments. A critical literature review and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders revealed insights into existing policy implementation, the quality and relevance of training programmes, and the recognition of artisans’ prior learning. The research findings underscore the urgent need for robust and inclusive skills development strategies, recognizing prior learning as a key intervention and improved advocacy for artisan professions. Establishing clear targets, enhancing digitization processes, and strengthening institutional roles are vital steps towards addressing artisans’ skill shortages in South Africa’s AEC industry.

Mapping the Diffusion and Adoption of ICTs Among SMMES in the Agribusiness Sector: The Case of the City of Tshwane in South Africa

Small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are key catalysts for advancing inclusive growth and development in South Africa. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have transformed and revolutionised the way people, governments, and SMMEs operate in the modern world. This article sheds light on the diffusion and adoption of ICTs by SMMEs in the agribusiness sector in the City of Tshwane, South Africa. The study was informed by the diffusion of innovation theory. The study employed a qualitative approach and targeted selected SMMEs and policymakers from Tshwane municipality; data were collected using face-to-face interviews. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants. Data were analysed using thematic categorisation. The findings show that a variety of ICTs have been adopted by SMMEs to improve communication with their clients, but at a low rate of adoption. The need for sufficient funding support from government to help improve the business operations of SMMEs was the most popular recommendation to emerge from the study. The article concludes that sufficient government support is needed to assist SMMEs in developing and adopting the ICTs they need to operate efficiently. This calls for government intervention such as funding support and mentorship to help develop SMMEs.

The Comparison Between Outdoor Play Spaces, Equipment, and Resources in Low Versus High Socioeconomic Johannesburg Early Childhood Development Centres

Abstract Play spaces facilitate play as a child’s primary occupation which is essential for learning and early childhood development. In South African early childhood development centres, almost 11% do not have access to outdoor play areas, 20% have no outdoor play equipment, and 50% have no access to educational toys (Early Childhood Development in South Africa. Education Series. IV (No. 92-01-04),100, Available: http://www.statssa.gov.za/publications/92-01-04/92-01-042016.pdf). This research aimed to compare the physical design and resources of outdoor play spaces in low socioeconomic (LSE) versus high socioeconomic (HSE) early childhood development (ECD) centres in Johannesburg. A descriptive comparative research design was used, with a total population sampling method for the distribution of a self-developed questionnaire adapted from play literature. Results were obtained from a total sample size of 82 ECD centres, 28 reported LSE and 54 reported HSE. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. LSE-ECD centres (57% community-based sites) had significantly less funding frequency compared to HSE-ECD centres (83% independent / private schools), with 87% private funding at least annually for outdoor play space upkeep. LSE-ECD centres had limited outdoor play space resource variety and quantity (7% had no outdoor play space, 43% had traditional playground designs, 14% had no fixed playground equipment), compared to HSE-ECD centres with a wide variety and abundance of outdoor play space resources. Chi-square statistics revealed a significantly higher number of fixed and loose manufactured equipment, movement toys, fixed and loose natural resources, and multi-sensory exploration spaces in HSE-ECD centres. Cramer’s V statistics revealed outdoor play space physical design and resource availability have a strong dependence on socioeconomic status.

The role and position of informal street vendors in the Onderberg district banana value chain

ABSTRACT The banana value chain is a key driver of socio-economic development in South Africa, supporting food security, job creation, income generation, and rural development. The Onderberg District, located in the Mpumalanga Province, is one of South Africa's six main banana production areas, contributing 35 per cent of the country's total banana cultivation. As such, street vendors play a crucial role in banana retailing, yet they are systematically excluded from the formal banana value chains. The purpose of this article is to map the informal economy banana value chains in the Onderberg District, emphasising the role of street vendors and documenting their value-adding activities. To achieve this, a combination of data collection tools within a cross-sectional time frame, including surveys and interviews, was employed. A total of 119 street vendors were surveyed, and 11 key informants participated in in-depth interviews. Banana value chains were mapped using functional analysis. The value chain analysis reveals the imbalances and challenges faced by street vendors within the banana market. There is a need to enhance the inclusivity of street vendors at every stage of the banana value chain. As members of vulnerable socio-economic groups, street vendors play a crucial role, particularly in informal markets. Analysing banana value chains in these settings can significantly improve economic livelihoods, especially for women, who are often not compensated for the work they do. This study addresses a critical knowledge gap by focusing on street vendors, offering valuable insights for future research, policy development, and practical interventions in similar contexts.

Ultra Thin Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement Development in South Africa

Ultra thin continuously reinforced concrete pavements (UTCRCP), in literature also referred to as Ultra Thin Heavy Reinforced High Performance Concrete (UTHRHPC), have been used in Europe successfully as a rehabilitation measure on steel bridge decks and reported on at the 5th International CROW workshop in Istanbul (2004). This concept has been explored further in South Africa for use as a road strengthening measure by constructing experimental sections of 50 mm UTCRCP directly on top of both natural gravel and cement-treated natural materials. During the experiment the composition of the UTCRCP layer was varied in terms of mix design, steel fibre type and content, reinforcing steel mesh diameter and spacing. To date a total of 10 experimental sections have been tested using the Heavy Vehicle Simulator (HVS) and rendered structural lives that varied from 5 million to 90 million equivalent standard (80 kN) axles on medium to weak support structure. The results obtained were then evaluated through 3D-finite element modelling and the design was refined using laboratory tests. The refined UTCRCP design was then subjected to further HVS testing. The paper discusses the above process in more detail.

Action research as a remedy to the ‘one-size-fits-all’ for business studies teachers’ professional development in South Africa

This article reports on literature review and the reflective practice of teachers and school principals on the use of action research in identifying teachers’ professional development (TPD) needs required for a successful implementation of blended and virtual learning. This article sought to contribute to the body of knowledge of teachers’ needs analysis and development; teachers’ digital competencies; and action research to the field of education. School principals and teachers who participated in this study confirmed that action research is an effective strategy that can be used in TPD. They further stressed that action research can be used to replace the existing ‘one size fits all strategy’ that is currently used blatantly across highly adequately and under-resourced schools. Using action research helped them expose realities entrenched within teaching and learning in less privileged schools. This study recommends the use of action research as strategy for identification of teachers’ and learners’ needs that should inform the contents and nature of teachers’ professional development programs.

An Assessment on The Effect of Immigrant Entrepreneurship on Local Economic Development in South Africa: A Literature Analysis

An Assessment on The Effect of Immigrant Entrepreneurship on Local Economic Development in South Africa: A Literature Analysis

The sustainability of entrepreneurship for economic development in South Africa

Previous studies indicate the adverse effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on entrepreneurship sustainability and socio-economic development. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic caused an economic crisis in global economies. This study acknowledged that entrepreneurship is a crucial component to consider in mitigating the aftereffects of the pandemic on economies and their recovery. The study examines the characteristics that encourage the survival of entrepreneurship in the COVID-19 pandemic environment and investigates the link between entrepreneurship and long-term development. The study evaluated the relevant literature to validate the correlations between the key variables to accomplish this goal. Given the setting of the Coronavirus pandemic, the study determines what the future of entrepreneurship will look like. The study is interested in knowing what path the entrepreneurs will choose regarding recovery. The method used to perform this study was a judgemental survey on the future trends in entrepreneurship. According to the findings, the top three positions are freelancing, internet and innovative entrepreneurship, and business globalisation, which will follow the trend in entrepreneurship. The practical implications of this research support entrepreneurs in their pursuit of new business trends.

Strategies for Cost-Effectiveness in Sustainable Quality Healthcare Delivery in Emerging Economies: The Case of Healthcare Professionals Development in South Africa.

Purpose: This paper suggests strategies for professionals' continuous development in healthcare institutions to ensure quality and sustainable healthcare delivery in a cost-effective way. Background: Healthcare services are increasingly becoming expensive, and receiving quality service is often difficult. This plunges practices and healthcare institutions into the sphere of the population's mistrust. They believe in the degradation of quality due to individual experiences, with the direct corollary of reduction in life expectancy in some areas. We therefore propose strategies for enhancing the quality of those individuals for a sustainable healthcare delivery in an emerging market economy, based on the case in South Africa. Method: Cost-effectiveness analysis is chosen for the purpose of non-monetary analysis, and we make use of the qualitative methodology to explore, in detail, the need of strategies to improve healthcare delivery. Results: We propose a suitable digital ecosystem for the professionals' development, and we evaluate the proposed methodology and the challenges that come from its realization. Conclusions: We find that the application of these strategies yields efficiency and quality, which, when applied continuously, yields sustainability.

The Influence of International Trade Policies on the Economic Growth and Development of South Africa: Free Trade or Protectionism?

This paper questioned the influence of International Trade Policies on the economic growth and development of South Africa by examining the effect of free trade and protectionism on economic growth and development. A literature search showed that South Africa follows a policy that seeks a balance between free trade and protectionism in South Africa. The paper applied the Mercantilism theory. Mercantilism is an economic development theory that advocates for home governments to regulate the economy and facilitate international trade so that domestic industries are promoted and protected. To gather relevant information, the paper followed a semi-systematic literature review as a methodology. The paper discovered that amid the current policy stance, which seeks to balance free trade and protectionism in South Africa, communities predominantly suffer from poverty, unemployment, and income inequality. The paper concluded that trade agreements and policies must be reevaluated if governments want to combat poverty, unemployment, and income inequality. Considering the above, the paper recommends that, owing to the power and role of government institutions in South Africa, selected areas of the economy must be reserved for local industries and producers, and MNCs must be brought in where local industries cannot supply.

Church partnerships: A holistic approach to addressing social issues in South Africa

For South African communities to achieve substantive progress, the establishment of strategic partnerships is essential for effectively addressing their complex social challenges. Churches, given their profound community presence and moral authority, are urged to join forces with other societal sectors, particularly government and business, to promote comprehensive community development. This article examines the potential for church partnerships with these sectors, investigating how such alliances can foster sustainable and holistic transformation. Central questions driving this inquiry include: What distinct contributions do churches bring to community development partnerships? and how can these partnerships efficiently combine their resources to tackle social, economic, and environmental issues? By assessing the role of the church alongside governmental frameworks and business resources, this study underscores the importance of an integrated approach to development. The church’s involvement not only provides essential support to vulnerable groups but also contributes strategically to the long-term empowerment of communities. This article ultimately underscores the need for combined engagement, demonstrating how a unified approach can amplify the collective impact on social well-being and resilience within South Africa. By highlighting the theological and organisational identities of churches, alongside the distinct capital and power each entity holds, the article seeks to identify common grounds for cooperation, with a particular focus on the church’s capacity to exert positive, morally guided influence within these partnerships.Contribution: The article highlights the significance of a holistic approach that utilises the strengths of churches, businesses and the government to boost social development in South Africa, thereby contributing to community development pathways.

Exploring entrepreneurial skills of DR Congolese refugee women through economic growth in Durban, South Africa

Refugee women entrepreneurship has been played a crucial role in economic development and poverty alleviation in both sending and receiving countries. Although their contribution to socioeconomic development in South Africa, they face various challenges including proper identity documents from the Department of Home Affairs, financial resources, and services to enter the labor market in SA. The purpose of this study is to explore the entrepreneurial skills of DR Congolese refugee women in Durban. This study used qualitative research methodology including both explanatory and descriptive theories during data collection. The study used in-depth interviews and questionnaires where ten Congolese refugee women informal traders between the age of 24 and 41 years were selected through snowball techniques from Congolese community in Durban. The results revealed that entrepreneurial activity has been considered as an approach of empowering refugee women and poverty alleviation in their receiving countries. The findings show that refugees are the most unlikely entrepreneurs as they lacked the resources to launch a new enterprise with no history of credit and lack of assets or security to bank loan. The study revealed the needs of UNHCR, NGOs and government’s support in terms of sponsoring refugees’ projects, especially business training and appropriate identity documents from the department of Home Affairs. The economic contributions of female refugee entrepreneurs from the Congo in South Africa could be substantial if supported by gender-responsive policies and the provision of formal identification documents, along with access to business training opportunities. This would enhance their well-being and contribute to the economic growth of Durban.

Optimising school leadership development for 21st-century learning: An in-depth analysis of South African private secondary schools in KwaZulu-Natal

There have been significant and rapid improvements in information and communication technology (ICT) since the early 1990s. Subsequent global changes have increased with the onset of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and have dictated pedagogical transformation. Many countries have moved from traditional approaches of education to 21st-century Learning (21CL). 21CL is ICT-aligned, inquiry-based, and includes the development of affective abilities. School leadership influences all structures and individuals directly in a school. It has the potential to be one of the cornerstones of the paradigm shift to 21CL. I investigated how school leadership is developed to facilitate 21CL and how it can be improved. I required quantitative and qualitative data to achieve the research objectives. Therefore, I adopted a mixed methods research approach that is underpinned by the positivist and interpretivist paradigms. I used a case study design. The data collection methods I employed were questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and focus group interviews. Phase one of the research involved the quantitative data collection from twenty-five schools, of which five schools were purposely sampled for the second qualitative phase. The use of transformational leadership, strategic leadership, system leadership, and ecological leadership in enacting 21CL featured prominently in the reviewed literature. However, the research findings show that, largely, these four leadership theories were not incorporated in leadership development in South Africa. The results also show that school leadership development specifically designed for 21CL, was limited. The leadership training that is available focused more on administrative tasks instead of on leadership theories and skills to facilitate 21CL. I recommend that further research be conducted in both private and public schools in other South African provinces.

Pitfalls of PTOs in land ownership and control: Rethinking access for rural development in South Africa

Permission to Occupy (PTOs) was viewed by the apartheid regime as an important mechanism for addressing inequalities in South Africa (SA). The African National Congress (ANC) government has ruled over SA for the past 30 years but has been unsuccessful in dealing with the country’s racialised land inequalities. The land reforms introduced by the ANC government have not addressed the challenges of land in the country in a timely manner. Thus, tackling the issue of land inequalities remains crucial. A desktop review was conducted to critically examine the pitfalls of PTOs in the context of rural development and advocates for a re-evaluation of access mechanisms to promote more equitable and sustainable land tenure systems. The results show that these pitfalls perpetuate socio-economic inequalities, hinder investment in land improvements, and contribute to conflicts over land resources. In response, the article proposes alternative approaches to enhance access to land for rural development, such as community-driven land governance mechanisms, participatory land-use planning, and the recognition of customary land tenure systems. These alternative strategies prioritise rural local empowerment, strengthen tenure security, and foster inclusive decision-making processes.