South Africa Research Articles

Short-term, lagged association of airway inflammation, lung function, and asthma symptom score with PM2.5 exposure among schoolchildren within a high air pollution region in South Africa.

Asthma affects millions of people globally, and high levels of air pollution aggravate asthma occurrence. This study aimed to determine the association between short-term lagged PM2.5 exposure and airway inflammation, lung function, and asthma symptom scores among schoolchildren in communities in the Highveld high-pollution region in South Africa. A cross-sectional study was conducted among schoolchildren aged 9-14 years in six communities in the Highveld region in South Africa, between October 2018 and February 2019. A NIOX 200 instrument was used to measure fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). Lung function indices (forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV1]; forced vital capacity [FVC] and FEV1/FVC) were collected using spirometry and the percent of predicted of these was based on the reference equations from the Global Lung Initiative, without ethnic correction. These values were further analyzed as binary outcomes following relevant thresholds (lower limits of normal for lung function and a cutoff of 35 ppb for FeNO). Asthma symptoms were used to create the asthma symptom score. Daily averages of PM2.5 data for the nearest monitoring station located in each community, were collected from the South African Air Quality Information System and created short-term 5-day lag PM2.5 concentrations. Additional reported environmental exposures were collected using standardized instruments. Of the 706 participating schoolchildren, only 1.13% of the participants had doctor-diagnosed asthma, compared to a prevalence of 6.94% with an asthma symptom score suggestive of asthma. Lag 1 (odds ratio [OR]: 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00, 1.02, P = 0.039) and 5-day average lagged PM2.5 (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 0.99, 1.04, P = 0.050) showed increased odds of the FeNO > 35 ppb. Lung function parameters (FEV1 < lower limit of normal [LLN] [OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.03, P = 0.018], and FEV1/FVC < LLN [OR: 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.02, P < 0.001]) and asthma symptom score ≥ 2 (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.04, P = 0.039) also showed significant associations with lag 2, lag 4 and lag 1 of PM2.5, respectively. Lagged PM2.5 exposure was associated with an increased odds of airway inflammation and an increased odds of lung function parameters below the LLN particularly for the later lags, but a significant dose-response relationship across the entire sample was not consistent.

The journey of service-learning: Perspectives from medical imaging and therapeutic sciences students

IntroductionL'Afrique du Sud (AS) est décrite comme un pays en développement confronté à de nombreux défis socio-économiques. L'apprentissage par le service (AS) est considéré comme une partie intégrante de l'apprentissage intégré au travail (AIT), qui donne aux étudiants l'occasion de faire l'expérience du monde réel du travail en mettant en pratique la théorie qui leur a été enseignée. Dans le contexte de cet article, l'apprentissage intégré au travail est intégré au programme de premier cycle des étudiants en imagerie médicale et en sciences thérapeutiques (IMST) en Afrique du Sud, sous la forme d'un projet communautaire d'apprentissage par le service (PCAS). Des projets similaires permettent aux étudiants de s'engager auprès de divers groupes de patients afin de mieux comprendre les environnements bio-psycho-sociaux de leurs futurs patients et d'améliorer les pratiques de soins centrées sur la personne. Bien qu'il existe des publications relatives à l'expérience vécue des étudiants en matière d'AS, aucune étude n'a encore été menée sur les étudiants en IMST et leur expérience en matière d'AS. Les auteurs ont donc cherché à explorer l'expérience des étudiants de l'Institut de technologie de l'Afrique du Sud qui ont suivi avec succès un programme de formation à la santé et à la sécurité au travail. MéthodologieUn modèle de recherche qualitative a été employé avec l'utilisation d'un échantillonnage raisonné. La population étudiée comprenait tous les chercheurs inscrits à l'Institut de gestion de la formation professionnelle (IMTS) sur le site de recherche qui ont suivi un PCAS. Cette étude a été entreprise en utilisant une approche en plusieurs phases: phase A: analyse documentaire des rapports de réflexion, phase B: entretiens semi-structurés individuels et phase C: élaboration de recommandations. La participation était volontaire et une technique d'analyse thématique réflexive a été utilisée pour analyser les données. RésultatsTrois thèmes principaux ont été développés: 1) les défis et les obstacles, 2) les attributs positifs des enseignants et 3) les résultats positifs du projet. Bien que les participants aient fait part de certains des défis qu'ils ont rencontrés dans le cadre de leur participation à l'AS, plusieurs résultats positifs ont également été mis en évidence, ce qui les a encouragés à vouloir rendre service à leur communauté. Le soutien reçu de la part de leur professeur a été hautement reconnu. Parmi les recommandations formulées à l'intention des éducateurs, citons l'organisation de séances de contrôle régulières, la recherche de méthodologies permettant d'établir une relation de confiance avec les étudiants et la possibilité d'introduire plus tôt l'apprentissage par la pratique dans le programme d'études. ConclusionLes résultats de cette étude montrent clairement que l'AS est capable de combler le fossé entre les connaissances théoriques et l'application pratique. Dans le cadre du programme d'études de premier cycle des étudiants en soins de santé, l'AS est considéré comme un instrument clé pour cultiver un sens accru de la responsabilité civique. La gestion efficace du temps et la recherche de sponsors ont été jugées essentielles pour mener à bien un projet de PCAS. L'épanouissement personnel et professionnel était évident parmi les participants de l'échantillon et l'importance de l'apprentissage interdisciplinaire a été soulignée. Les participants ont en outre exprimé leur appréciation de l'opportunité que leur offrait l'AS en leur permettant de collaborer avec d'autres professionnels de la santé et d'apprendre d'eux.

Evaluation of four interventions using behavioural economics insights to increase demand for voluntary medical male circumcision in South Africa through the MoyaApp: A quasi-experimental study.

While voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) reduces the risk of HIV transmission by 60%, circumcision coverage falls short of the UNAIDS 90% VMMC target. We investigated whether behaviourally informed message framing increased demand for VMMC. Adult users of the MoyaApp, a data free application in South Africa, who viewed a form designed to generate interest in VMMC during August-November 2022. A quasi-experimental study was conducted to evaluate four MoyaApp VMMC intervention forms against the Standard of Care (SOC) form. All forms enabled users to provide contact details for follow-up engagement by a call centre. The primary outcome was the proportion of forms submitted. Secondary outcomes included successful contact with the user, VMMC bookings/referrals and confirmed circumcision. Multivariable ordinary least-squares regression was used for the analysis. Of 118,337 MoyaApp VMMC form viewers, 6% submitted a form. Foot-in-the-Door form viewers were more likely (+1.3 percentage points, p<0.01) to submit a form compared to the SOC group (6.3%). Active Choice (-1.1 percentage points, p<0.01) and Reserved for You (-0.05 percentage points, p<0.05) form viewers were less likely to submit a form compared to SOC. Users submitting on Foot-in-the-Door were less likely to be booked/referred compared to SOC (-5 percentage points, p<0.05). There were no differences between the intervention and SOC forms for successful contact and circumcisions. Message framing using behavioural insights was able to nudge men to engage with VMMC services. However, more work is needed to understand how to convert initial interest into bookings and circumcisions.

South African Chiropractic Students’ Intentions, Motivations, and Considerations for Emigration: A Cross-Sectional Study

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to investigate the emigration intentions of South African senior chiropractic students upon graduation, emphasizing motivations and considerations guiding migration decisions. MethodsA cross-sectional, quantitative, and exploratory approach was employed, utilizing an anonymous and adapted online survey administered to chiropractic students at 2 South African institutions (n = 177) between March 15 and May 19, 2021. Data were analyzed using frequencies, descriptions, and cross-tabulations to identify trends and interrelationships related to students’ intentions to emigrate postqualification. ResultsFindings indicate that 75.5% of South African chiropractic senior students intend to emigrate. Motivations for emigration include improved quality of life and seeking of opportunities. Economic instability in South Africa (SA) (82.7%) and concern for the National Health Insurance implementation (57.7%) serve as a significant push factor, whereas economic stability abroad (85.7%) emerged as a key pull factor. Preferred emigration destinations are primarily developed countries with established chiropractic communities. ConclusionHigh emigration intentions among students were driven by diverse push factors in SA, including economic decline, socio-political climates, and safety concerns, contrasting with pull factors abroad, such as better opportunities, living conditions, and economic stability. Concerns regarding healthcare reforms, particularly the National Health Insurance, are also highlighted. Destinations in order of preference such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia offer valuable insights for policy interventions. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective retention strategies and addressing socio-economic challenges.

Diagnostic radiography clinical resources in a workplace-based learning setting

IntroductionWorkplace-based learning (WBL) is a method that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, promoting learner autonomy. Diagnostic radiography students in South Africa face challenges due to inconsistencies in clinical resources from the public and private sectors. Insufficient clinical resources can negatively impact students' competence and confidence in their skills. This study explored diagnostic radiography students’ understanding of clinical resources. MethodsA qualitative exploratory-descriptive and contextual study with 21 participants at a single Higher Education institution (HEI) in South Africa was conducted through one-on-one semi-structured interviews on Microsoft Teams. The data collection tool was an interview guide. Students’ narratives were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. ResultsThematic analysis revealed four themes: Theme one: Defining clinical resources in WBL; Theme two: Experiences with clinical resources in WBL; Theme three: Accessibility of clinical resources in WBL and Theme four: Defining clinical resources in WBL. ConclusionClinical resources are essential for radiography learning, promoting skills development and independent work. Balancing these resources with other activities is crucial for a comprehensive WBL experience. However, unequal access can hinder learning. Alternative solutions should be explored for specialised imaging techniques. Integrating simulation and collaborative practice between clinical practices and HEIs can enhance students' preparedness for real-world scenarios.

The Drivers of Sustainable Development in South African Economy: The Role of Female Advancement

Contemporary societies have challenges in achieving sustainable development, while African economies remain quite distant from this ideal course for sustainable growth. Likewise, official statistics in South Africa show a wide gap between male and female involvement in economic activities. Given this, the study investigates the connection between three dimensions of sustainable development and female advancement in South Africa using auto-regressive disturbed lags (ARDL), Structural Vector autoregressive (SVAR) and Ganger non-causality approach. The three dimensions of sustainable development considered in this study are economic, environmental and social, proxies by adjusted net national savings, carbon emissions and adjusted net national income per capita, respectively. The female advancement indicators are proxies by employment, wages and salaries, and secondary school enrolment. The result from the ARDL shows that female advancement indicators promote short (SR) and long-run (LR) economic sustainability. Also, female wages and salaries have a positive relationship with carbon emissions in the SR but not significantly in the LR. At the same time, female employment and secondary school enrolment have a positive relationship with carbon emissions in the SR but are negative in the LR. The primary causes affecting long-term environmental sustainability are GDP per capita, financial development, population density, trade openness and urbanisation. Also, female advancement indicators promote social sustainability, especially employment, wages and salaries. More so, the SVAR results show that the forecasting error shock of GDP has minimal effect on carbon emission with notable variation in the population density. The causality result shows a unidirectional relationship between economic sustainability and female secondary school enrolment, environmental sustainability and female secondary school enrolment, and social sustainability and female secondary school enrolment, all flowing to female secondary school enrolment. Based on the findings, the study recommended improving female educational standards and increasing involvement in economic participation.

Meta-analysis of legumes and groundnut production trends and variability in the Global South

This study examined the production trends and variability of grain legumes in the Global South from 2000 to 2022, with a particular emphasis on groundnut yields and regional differences. From 2000 to 2022, global legume production in the Southern Hemisphere increased by approximately 20-30%, driven by rising demand for plant-based proteins and expanded cropping areas in countries like Brazil and Argentina. Improved agricultural practices have further enhanced yields. In contrast, groundnut production experienced a more moderate growth of around 10-15%, influenced by favourable conditions and expanded cultivation in regions such as Argentina and South Africa. While demand for groundnuts remains strong, market fluctuations and competition with other crops continue to shape its production dynamics. The analysis covered a range of legumes, including common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata), pigeon peas (Cajanus cajan), groundnuts/peanuts (Arachis hypogaea), soya beans (Glycine max), bambara groundnuts (Vigna subterranea), chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), lentils (Lens culinaris), mung beans (Vigna radiata), black gram (Vigna mungo), faba beans (Vicia faba), lablab beans (Lablab purpureus), tepary beans (Phaseolus acutifolius), African yam beans (Sphenostylis stenocarpa), Kersting's groundnut (Macrotyloma geocarpum), lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus), black beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), adzuki beans (Vigna angularis), moth beans (Vigna aconitifolia), horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum), broad beans (Vicia faba), winged beans (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus). Regional data revealed significant differences in legume production. In Sub-Saharan Africa, cowpeas and groundnuts are vital, with cowpeas grown over 11.4 million hectares on average yielding 450 kg ha-1, and groundnuts covering 9.1 million hectares with an average yield of 1,007 kg ha-1. Chickpeas and pigeon peas dominate South Asia's production, whereas Latin America features prominent soya bean and groundnut cultivation. Oceania's legume farming is less extensive, focusing on chickpeas and mung beans. Descriptive statistics revealed that Egypt led in groundnut production with an average yield of 3,279.1 kg ha-1 and a low coefficient of variation (CV) of 4.89%, indicating stable production. Conversely, Mozambique had the lowest average yield at 322.9 kg ha-1, with a high CV of 30.23%, reflecting greater variability. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified five principal components explaining 70.9% of the total variance, with the first two components (PC 1 and PC 2) accounting for 51%. Bangladesh and Brazil were major contributors to PC 1, while Algeria and Senegal influenced PC 2. These findings highlight the considerable regional variability in yields and stability in legume production. Future research should address these disparities and enhance resilience through targeted agricultural practices and policy interventions.

Medical imaging and radiation science students' use of artificial intelligence for learning and assessment

IntroductionArtificial intelligence has permeated all aspects of our existence, and medical imaging has shown the burgeoning use of artificial intelligence in clinical environments. However, there are limited empirical studies on radiography students' use of artificial intelligence for learning and assessment. Therefore, this study aimed to gain an understanding of this phenomenon. MethodsThe study used a qualitative explorative and descriptive research design. Data was obtained through five focus group interviews with purposively sampled undergraduate medical imaging and radiation science students at a single higher education institution in South Africa. Verbatim transcripts of the audio-recorded interviews were analysed thematically. ResultsThree themes and related subthemes were developed: 1) understanding artificial intelligence, 2) experiences with the use of artificial intelligence with the subthemes of the use of artificial intelligence in theoretical and clinical learning and challenges of using artificial intelligence, and 3) incorporation of artificial intelligence in undergraduate medical imaging and radiation sciences education with the subthemes of student education, ethical considerations and responsible use and curriculum integration of artificial intelligence in relation to learning and assessment. ConclusionParticipants used artificial intelligence for learning and assessment by generating ideas to enhance academic writing, as a learning tool, finding literature, language translation and for enhanced efficiency. Simulation-based artificial intelligence supports students' clinical learning, and artificial intelligence within the clinical departments assists with improved patient outcomes. However, participants expressed concerns about the reliability and ethical implications of artificial intelligence-generated information. To address these concerns, participants suggested integrating artificial intelligence into medical imaging and radiation sciences education, where educators need to educate students on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in learning and consider artificial intelligence in assessments. Implications for practiceThe study findings contribute to understanding medical imaging and radiation sciences students’ use of artificial intelligence and may be used to develop evidence-based strategies for integrating artificial intelligence into the curriculum to enhance medical imaging and radiation sciences education and support students.

A systematic review of multi-level intervention to enhance the quality of life patient with human immunodeficiency virus

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are still challenges worldwide. Improvement in quality of life (QoL) is crucial for HIV-infected people. The QoL of HIV-infected patients has been improved by the use of multilevel interventions in various circumstances. This study evaluates the evidence for interventions that target the quality of life of persons with HIV. A systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. Science Direct, the Cochrane Library database, and Pubmed were also searched. Three independent reviewers extracted the data. Searches were conducted for articles published from 2013 to 2023. Searching procedures and data abstraction techniques were standardized. The 27 research examined the effects of interventions on HIVinfected people's quality of life. China is the most frequently mentioned country in the 27 studies, appearing as the setting in 8 (29.6%). Following South Africa (14.8%), New York (11.11%) and Kenya (7.4%) were the next most often mentioned countries. For analysis purposes, the interventions used in the 27 reviewed studies were classified into three main categories: individual intervention, family-community intervention, and health service intervention. Significant intervention innovations in quality-of-life research combining several interventions, including individual, family, community, and health system intervention, show the most promising results

True and false positive HIV point of care test results in a prospective multinational study of at-risk African women: implications for large-scale repeat HIV testing in HIV prevention programs.

Accurate HIV point of care testing is the cornerstone of prevention and treatment efforts globally, though false (both negative and positive) results are expected to occur. We assessed the spectrum of true and false positive HIV results in a large prospective study of HIV incidence in African women using three contraceptive methods tested longitudinally in Eswatini, Kenya, South Africa, and Zambia. HIV serologic testing was conducted quarterly using two parallel rapid HIV tests. When one or both tests were positive, additional confirmatory testing was conducted, including HIV enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA). 7730 women contributed 48,234 visits: true positive results occurred at 412 visits (0.9%) and false positives at 96 visits (0.2%). Of 412 women with HIV seroconversion, 10 had discordant (i.e., one negative and one positive) rapid tests and 13 had undetectable HIV RNA levels. Of 62 women with false positive rapid HIV results, most had discordant rapid testing but six (9.7%) had dually-positive rapid results and four (6.5%) had false positive or indeterminate EIA results. The positive predictive value of dual positive rapid results was 98.3%. Although the majority of rapid test results were accurate, false positive results were expected and occurred in this population of initially HIV seronegative individuals tested repeatedly and prospectively. When HIV infection occurred, not all cases had textbook laboratory results. Our findings highlight the importance of confirmatory testing, particularly for individuals undergoing repeat testing and in settings where the point prevalence is expected to be low.

Molecular Activities and Mechanisms of Action of Substances and Molecules from Medicinal Plants from Sub-Saharan Africa on Prostate and Cervical Cancer Cells.

Despite years of medical research, cancer remains a major public health problem worldwide, particularly in Africa. The cost, duration, and toxicity of currently available treatments are all drawbacks. Plant secondary metabolites are significant anticancer compounds. Already used in traditional health systems, plants are currently the subject of numerous studies to discover new anti-cancer drugs. This review assesses the literature on the cytotoxic effect of plant substances (extracts) and molecules on prostate and cervical cancer cell lines. PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were used to find in vitro studies carried out between 2006 and 2023 related to the cytotoxicity of extracts, substances and/or molecules from plants harvested in sub- Saharan Africa against prostate and/or cervical cancer cell lines. A total of 36 reports on the cytotoxic potential of 96 medicinal plants from sub-Saharan Africa were extracted from the selected databases. All the plants listed had a cytotoxic effect on prostate and/or cervical cancer cells. Some plant extracts or molecules showed significant activity with an IC50< 20 μg/ml. Burkina Faso and South Africa had the most plant extracts tested for prostate and cervical cancer, respectively. A total of 36 reports on the cytotoxic potential of 96 medicinal plants from sub-Saharan Africa were extracted from the selected databases.

The enigmatic Triassic ovulate reproductive structures of Dordrechtites are recurved cupules fundamentally comparable to the cupules of Doylea and similar plants.

Recent paleobotanical discoveries have renewed interest in the distinctively recurved, seed-bearing cupules of Mesozoic plants, which are important for understanding seed plant phylogeny and the origin of the second integument of the angiosperm ovule. Reanalysis of the enigmatic seed-bearing organ Dordrechtites elongatus from the Triassic of South Africa, the type species of the genus, combined with information from similar material from Antarctica, Argentina and Australia, indicates that Dordrechtites is a highly modified lateral branch of a seed cone. Short lateral projections from a primary cone axis each bear several Dordrechtites units. Each unit consists of a long stalk bearing a straight to sometimes recurved cupule with a long distal extension beyond the cupule apex. Each cupule is flattened in a plane perpendicular to the stalk and distal projection and contains up to two seeds. Structural similarities between Dordrechtites and the cupules of Doyleales indicate that they are homologous, providing new evidence for a close relationship. The persistent cupule stalk and apical extension of Dordrechtites, combined with the flattened cupule, suggests modification for wind and water dispersal.

A method for estimating maximum safe installable power for groundwater extraction with application to Africa

New groundwater development is a likely way to meet growing global water demand but needs careful management. To help inform the sustainable development of groundwater resources, a novel method based on the maximum safe installable power for water pumping systems and the maximum safe remaining installable power (considering current abstraction) is developed. The proposed model couples energy, technology and hydrogeological parameters, and is then developed to compute the maximum power that can be safely installed per km2 without exceeding a maximum annual pumpable volume, calculated through available recharge and storage. The model is applied to estimate the maximum safe installable power across Africa with a 0.2-degree resolution, using available energy and hydrogeological data. Constrained by recharge (considering that 25 % of the annual recharge is available for utilization), the maximum safe installable power ranges between 0 and 9960 W/km2 across Africa with regions such as the Congo Basin (~340 W/km2), and western Africa between the Ivory Coast and Nigeria (~230 W/km2) identified as having high potential for sustainable pumping system development. Constrained by storage (considering that 0.1 % of storage can be withdrawn per year), it ranges between 0 and 13,425 W/km2 highlighting the ability to harness storage for pumping system development in the large aquifers of Northern Sahara (~8720 W/km2). When considering limitations posed by both groundwater recharge and aquifer storage (considering that 25 % of the annual recharge and 0.1 % of storage can be withdrawn per year), along with current groundwater withdrawal, 93 % of the maximum safe installable power remains still installable on average across Africa. Nevertheless, 2 % of the locations are estimated to be already experiencing overexploitation, particularly in Sudan, northern Africa, and northeastern South Africa. These findings provide a novel and adaptable way to examine water security, which can assist institutions in targeting investments to meet water demand sustainably.

Impact of investment climate on foreign direct investment in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa,

The study examined the Impact of Investment Climate on Foreign Direct Investment in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa, for the period of 2000 to 2021. The focus of this study is on how the business environment in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa influences foreign direct investment. Specific goals are as follows: (i). Evaluate critically the effect of the economic investment climate in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa on the inflow of FDI The variable scope include economic investment climate (ease of doing business index, gross domestic product, inflation rate), political investment climate (political stability index, corruption perception index, quality of institutions), environmental investment climate (nitrous-oxide emission, population density, land/air pollution rate) as the independent variable. The dependent variable was foreign direct investment inflows. Time series analysis, and more specifically the multiple panel regression analysis method, was used in analyzing the data adopting the Cobb Douglass model for its theoretical framework and data was sourced from the Statistical Bulletin of the countries studied and the World Bank Statistics.\The results show that, Economic investment climate variable (GDP) had significant positive effect on the inflow of foreign direct investment into Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa. While inflation have positive insignificant relationship with FDI; It was recommended that; Efforts should be made by the governments of Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa to enhance their economic fortunes by strengthening their economy through engaging in massive production for exports which will boost economic growth and as well attract more foreign direct investment

A longitudinal analysis and projection of provincial murder trends in South Africa: Causation and spatiality (2022-2027)

This article conducts a longitudinal analysis of provincial murder trends in South Africa, examining the socio-economic and spatial factors contributing to violence. It highlights how extreme income inequality, unemployment, and regional disparities drive high murder rates, with a notable concentration in provinces such as Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and Western Cape. Utilising secondary data from the South African Police Service, the study identifies key motives for murder, including interpersonal conflicts, robbery, and gang violence. Forecasting techniques were employed to project murder trends, emphasising the urgency of targeted interventions in high-risk areas. Recommendations include implementing community-specific policing, conflict resolution programs, and economic support initiatives to address root causes. This research contributes a predictive perspective on crime trends, advocating for data-driven approaches to enhance public safety and reduce violence across diverse socio-economic landscapes in South Africa.

Review of penetration and impact of utility solar installation in developing countries: policy and challenges

This review examines the penetration and impact of utility-scale solar installations in developing countries, focusing on the policy landscape and challenges associated with their adoption. Solar energy has emerged as a vital component of the global shift towards renewable energy, offering substantial potential for alleviating energy poverty and fostering sustainable development in regions with abundant solar resources. Despite these opportunities, the penetration of utility-scale solar in developing countries faces several barriers. These include financial constraints, inconsistent policy frameworks, technological challenges, and social acceptance issues. This review explores the current status of solar energy adoption, highlighting regional trends and key countries such as Kenya, India, and South Africa, which have made significant strides in solar deployment. It assesses the economic, social, and environmental impacts of utility solar projects, emphasizing their role in job creation, electrification, and climate change mitigation. However, challenges such as high initial costs, limited access to financing, weak grid infrastructure, and regulatory bottlenecks continue to impede broader adoption. Policy and regulatory support are critical to overcoming these challenges. This review outlines the national and international frameworks that influence solar energy penetration, as well as the incentives, subsidies, and financing mechanisms available. Recommendations include streamlining regulatory processes, improving access to finance through innovative models, and enhancing grid infrastructure. Finally, the review discusses future trends, including advancements in solar technology, energy storage, and smart grid integration, which could accelerate the growth of solar installations in developing countries. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive strategies that address policy, financial, and social challenges to fully realize the potential of solar energy in these regions.

India's strategic influence in BRICS: Balancing power with diplomacy

India's strategic role within the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) grouping highlights its growing influence in global geopolitics. This paper explores how India leverages BRICS as a platform to balance power, especially vis-à-vis China, while promoting multilateralism and economic cooperation. As the only democratic nation within BRICS with a robust engagement in both the Global South and Western alliances, India strategically navigates its diplomatic relations to push for reforms in global governance structures such as the United Nations and financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank. Through a combination of economic outreach, leadership in technology and digital finance, and a firm stance on sovereignty, India is positioning itself as a bridge between competing global powers, while advocating for equitable global development. The paper argues that India's balancing act within BRICS underscores its aspirations to be a leading global player while protecting its national interests and regional stability.

Regenerative agriculture: A paradigm shift for food production in South Africa

Agriculture and other land use practices have severely affected the quality of soils and food production systems in South Africa. In addition, these practices significantly contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Soil quality is generally associated with soil organic matter (SOM) along with elemental Carbon (C) and Nitrogen (N). Approximately 58% of South African soils contain &lt;0.5% organic C, 38% contain 0.5–2% organic C, and 4% contain &gt;2% organic C. The extensive aridity and lack of SOM content in South African soils cause them to lack resilience and have a delicate nature compared to soils in temperate regions. In a country where almost 60% of the land is degraded, and 91% is prone to desertification, farming practices require a revised framework for land management. The challenge of producing food on degraded land that is often water-scarce and particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change is a threat to South Africa's food and nutritional security. Therefore, this review aims to equip farmers with knowledge and principles of innovative and sustainable alternatives such as regenerative agriculture that naturally and progressively improves soil quality/fertility and ecosystem health; and reduces GHG emissions through carbon sequestration. Quantitative studies in South Africa show that during 5–90 years of crop cultivation in the Free State province resulted in a 10–73% reduction in C and N relative to natural grasslands. Similar studies reported a 50% reduction in C after 50 years of cultivation on Hutton soil in Pretoria; and a 50% reduction in C after only 3.5 years of cultivation in the Free State. Considering that the world's food systems are responsible for more than a third of anthropogenic GHG emissions, we are convinced that the shifting trend toward regenerative agriculture is a sustainable climate-smart solution for global food production systems.

Food systems modelling to evaluate interventions for food and nutrition security in an African urban context

AbstractIn the context of rapidly growing African cities, a thorough understanding of the complexities of urban food systems is essential for addressing the challenges of food insecurity and undernourishment for city dwellers. Particularly in South Africa, where pre-existing inequalities drive disparities in food access and diet-related health outcomes, a comprehensive perspective including the spatial distribution of malnutrition in urban environments is required to develop effective interventions. The present study examines the essential elements of an urban food system by employing a Bayesian network as a causal framework. By integrating survey data from households and food outlets with spatial information, a food systems model was created to test policy interventions. The study demonstrates the challenges of intervening in complex urban food systems, where dietary choices are shaped by various factors, often in a spatially heterogeneous manner. Interventions do not always benefit the targeted groups and are sometimes ineffective as result of system interactions. Our study shows that Bayesian network models provide a powerful tool to effectively analyse the complex interactions within such systems, thereby enabling the identification of optimal combinations of multifactor interventions. In our case study for Worcester, South Africa, the results reveal that the largest potential for improvement of food and nutrition security lies in the informal food sector, and support for affordable and local fresh produce is a viable measure for enhancing local nutrition, though the extent of impact varies across the city.

The efficacy of wastewater treatment plant on removal of perfluoroalkyl substances and their impacts on the coastal environment of False Bay, South Africa

AbstractPer- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), which have their origins in both industrial processes and consumer products, can be detected at all treatment stages in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Quantifying the emissions of PFAS from WWTPs into the marine environment is crucial because of their potential impacts on receiving aquatic ecosystems. In this study, the levels of five PFAS were measured in both influent and effluent sewage water samples obtained from a municipal WWTP, the discharges of which flow into False Bay, on the Indian Ocean coast of Cape Town, South Africa. Additionally, seawater, sediment, and biota samples from eight sites along the False Bay coast were also analysed. Results showed high prevalence of PFAS in the different environmental matrices. Perfluorononanoic acid was most dominant in all these matrices with maximum concentration in wastewater, 10.50 ng/L; seawater, 18.76 ng/L; marine sediment, 239.65 ng/g dry weight (dw); invertebrates, 0.72–2.45 µg/g dw; seaweed, 0.36–2.01 µg/g dw. The study used the chemical fingerprint of five PFASs detected in WWTP effluents to track their dispersion across a large, previously pristine marine environment and examined how each chemical accumulated in different marine organisms. The study also demonstrates that primary and secondary wastewater treatment processes cannot fully remove such compounds. There is thus a need to improve effluent quality before its release into the environment and promote continuous monitoring focusing on the sources of PFAS, including their potential transformation products, their environmental fate and ecological risks, particularly in areas receiving effluents from WWTP.