OIDA International Journal of Sustainable Development
Open-access peer-reviewed journal
| Capacity-building initiatives for improved services in South African municipalities | 11-22 |
| Role of Budgetary Decentralization and Community Funds in Enhancing Infrastructure to Lower Poverty Rates | 23-34 |
| Policing in the Fourth Industrial Revolution: Prospects and Challenges | 35-54 |
| Developing a Commercialization Model to Enhance the Socio-Economic Impact of South Africa’s Smallholder Farming Sector | 55-72 |
| State of Corruption Causing Financial Misconduct in the South African Public Sector | 73-84 |
| Evaluating the success of South African Law Enforcement in combating drug and substance abuse: Are we winning the fight? The case study of Youth-Network Engaged Scholarship Project | 85-98 |
| An Overview of Forensic Investigators in the Investigation of Mobile Fraud: The Study Case of the South African Banking Industry | 99-110 |
| Examining the Effects of Cyberbullying in South African Higher Education: Insights and Recommendations | 111-118 |
| Enhancing Sustainability with an Automated Financial Literacy Expert Advisor to Train and Educate on Generating Passive Income from Forex Trading | 119-140 |
| A Strategy for Poverty Eradication towards Sustainable Development | 141-154 |
| Improving Sustainable Development with a Mentorship System to enhance Teaching and Learning for Universities in Developing Countries | 155-172 |
| Advancement of technology in road safety: Review | 173-182 |
| Enhancing Resource Empowerment Through Input Provision, Production Efficiency, and Operational Efficiency: Evidence from Resource-Poor Citrus Farmers in South Africa | 183-198 |
| Digital Transformation in Environmental Health Data Management: A Contemporary Need | 199-210 |
| The importance of road construction engineering in preventing pedestrian fatalities in Limpopo Province | 211-222 |
| Do not drink and attack: An exploration into how management can address alcohol abuse as a catalyst to gender-based violence and femicide attacks in institutions of higher learning | 223-232 |
Capacity-building initiatives for improved services in South African municipalities
Mncedisi Ncamphalala 1, Shikha Vyas-Doorgapersad 2
1,2 School of Public Management, Governance and Public Policy; College of Business and Economics
University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 11-22, 2025
Abstract: This study was premised on building ample capacity for improved delivery of services in South African municipalities. This was based on the need to ensure that capacity-building interventions that should also include the smart city phenomena and its various practices, which are fourth industrial revolution (4IR) tools, are used to improve the effectiveness of the local government sphere of South Africa. The study was qualitative and explored challenges emerging from data gathered through literature and document review of available information. The information was assessed using document analysis. The findings explore that there are various factors that impede the effectiveness of capacity realisation in municipalities, which have been established on an array of fronts. These include the poor skills development focus of the municipality, in which some of the training being offered is way off the radar of the 4IR. The findings suggest the absence of enthusiasm among those tasked with leading capacity-building, especially technology-related, which affects the conceptualisation and execution of any capacity-building programmes. Based on the findings, the study recommends the need for strategies towards building capacity to make smart service delivery possible for effectively rendering public goods and services to the various communities under its jurisdiction. Capacity-building is one critical aspect that local government entities can use to harness the current era of the 4IR for improved service delivery. The aim of the study is to develop a need for capacity-building hence to ensure local government entities embark on 4IR capacity-building initiatives to take advantage of this era’s efficiency-promoting practices. This can help municipalities expedite community development and eradicate poverty and other social ills. 4IR capacity-building is even more crucial at the local sphere of government because it is the closest to local communities. The 4IR aspects vital to the municipal entities go beyond the mere digitalisation or virtualisation of municipal service rendering and speaking to the incorporation of AI, 3D printing, blockchain technology, and many other cognate practices. The study is significant theoretically and practically in that it contributes to current scholarly knowledge regarding 4IR capacity-building in South African municipal entities and the discipline of public policy, management, and governance.
Keywords: capacity-building, Fourth Industrial Revolution, information and communication technologies, municipalities, qualitative, service delivery, South Africa.
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Role of Budgetary Decentralization and Community Funds in Enhancing Infrastructure to Lower Poverty Rates
Tasum 1, Sri Susilowati 2, Eleonora Sofilda 3 *
1,2,3 Public Policy Studies, Economics Doctoral Program, Universitas Trisakti, Indonesia.
1 Faculty of Economics, Krinadwipayana University, Indonesia.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 23-34, 2025
Abstract: The development of infrastructure can influence economic activities and contributing to improved welfare, hopefully. Given that the government holds primary responsibility for infrastructure development, it must prioritize this issue, particularly in Indonesia, an archipelagic nation. As the government plays a crucial role, the main objective of this study is to identify the impact of fiscal decentralization and village funds on infrastructure improvement as a means to reduce poverty. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining panel data regression analysis with a systematic literature review. The dataset consists of 415 regencies and cities across 33 provinces in Indonesia, covering the period from 2015 to 2021. The key findings of this study surprisingly reveal that village funds and infrastructure budget allocations have a significant yet negative effect on infrastructure. Meanwhile, regional independence and competitiveness indices exhibit a positive and significant impact. Furthermore, foreign investment negatively influences infrastructure development. Additionally, existing infrastructure is found to have no significant effect on poverty levels in Indonesia.
Keywords: Infrastructure Development, Poverty, Government Expenditure, Mixed Methods.
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Policing in the Fourth Industrial Revolution: Prospects and Challenges
Mpho Mark Matlala
University of South Africa, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 35-54, 2025.
Abstract: This conceptual and predictive paper explores prospects and challenges for policing in the fourth industrial revolution. Policing as a social order, is not immune from the influences of new technologies. Whilst technologies were introduced in police work at the turn of the 20th century (1901), in the second industrial revolution or the technological revolution, the move to the third industrial revolution (1950-1999) brought about radical changes in police work globally. In that era, technology enabled high-speed transfers of data, enhanced accuracies in measurements, the electronic tracking of evidence and criminals, biometric identifications on persons, the storing of huge data sets, and the digitisation of work traditionally done by humans. In the fourth industrial revolution, technologies offer more prospects. These form the core of discussions in this paper. Despite technological innovations from the last 120 years plus (1900-2024), policing globally remains beset by challenges that include a technological apartheid owing to the inequalities created by the gaps between the rich and poor nations, economic underdevelopment, resource constraints, lax political will, using outdated methodologies and non-integrated global policing, which problems threaten misalignment with the fourth industrial revolution. This paper extrapolates a few fourth industrial revolution technological applications as a way of imagining some of the prospects for policing, whilst showcasing how the technologies can be used to improve on operational efficiencies in crime prevention. The paper also gives recommendations on what can be done to integrate global policing. The fourth industrial revolution is typified by artificial intelligence, 5G technologies, robotics, virtual reality, Internet of things, smart software’s, and big data analytics, which applications can help the police contribute to the sustainability goals. The research is qualitative desktop and draws from literature and fictional sources (movies), to illustrate the prospects, and therefore uses inductive ways to synthesise data.
Keywords: Policing; Industrial Revolution; Artificial Intelligence; Crime Prevention; Robotics.
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Developing a Commercialization Model to Enhance the Socio-Economic Impact of South Africa’s Smallholder Farming Sector
Victor Mbulaheni Mmbengwa 1, and Hilda Lefophane 2
1 Department of Agricultural Economics and Animal Production, University of Limpopo (UL), Sovenga, Republic of South Africa.
2 Department of Agricultural Economics and Animal Production, University of Limpopo (UL), Sovenga, Republic of South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, 55-72, 2025.
Abstract :This study develops a comprehensive commercialization model aimed at enhancing the economic viability of South Africa’s smallholder farming sector. The model is designed to address structural and operational inefficiencies, with the broader goal of contributing to national GDP, poverty alleviation, and reduced unemployment rates. Employing a sequential, multi-phase mixed-method research design, the first phase involved qualitative focus group sessions to delineate key research dimensions. This was followed by quantitative face-to-face interviews using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire. The data, collected from a randomly selected sample of 1,115 participants—comprising 560 females (50.22%) and 555 males (49.78%)—were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results underscore the significance of entrepreneurial leadership, social capital, and competitive advantage as crucial factors for enhancing smallholder enterprise performance. Notably, enterprise performance emerged as a mediating variable influencing the commercialization outcomes of smallholder farming enterprises. The study offers theoretical and practical insights, advocating for strategic interventions, including policy amendments and land reform adjustments, to facilitate the sustainable commercialization of this sector. These recommendations emphasize a holistic approach to empowering smallholder farmers, positioning them as vital contributors to South Africa’s socio-economic development.
Keywords: commercialization, smallholder farming, entrepreneurial leadership, social capital, economic development.
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State of Corruption Causing Financial Misconduct in the South African Public Sector
Sabelo Dhlamini 1, Shikha Vyas-Doorgapersad 2
1,2 School of Public Management, Governance and Public Policy,
College of Business and Economics, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 73-84, 2025.
Abstract: The study analysed the state of corruption and financial misconduct in the South African public sector. The study employed a qualitative research approach to gather data. The study used literature and document review to compile information on corruption and the measures required to combat financial misconduct in South Africa’s public sector. The study used secondary data, and no human interaction was involved. The secondary data was sourced from official records and literature that is available in public domain. The aim of the study is to explain what corruption is and discusses its causes and history, specifically in the South African context. The study identifies anti-corruption measures and the extent of financial misconduct in South Africa and discusses factors hampering the successful implementation of anti-corruption measures. The study offers recommendations for improving the state of corruption and financial misconduct in South Africa. Analysing corruption facilitates the identification of flaws in the legal and governance frameworks, paving the way for changes that could enhance accountability and openness in public administration. This study is important to the body of knowledge because it provides a more recent account of the corruption and financial misconduct that has been taking place in South Africa’s public sector. It reviews some of the acts and plans that were created to stop corruption, and analyses whether they have been fruitful or not. This research on corruption is crucial to developing a more transparent, effective, and equal system of government in South Africa. Results of such studies can be used by government agencies to strengthen institutions, enhance policies, and eventually provide better public services. Based on the findings of studies into corruption, government agencies can work together, sharing best practices and problems. This results in a more cohesive and successful strategy to fight corruption at all governmental levels.
Keywords: Anti-corruption measures, corruption, financial misconduct, South African public sector, wrongdoings.
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Evaluating the success of South African Law Enforcement in combating drug and substance abuse: Are we winning the fight? The case study of Youth-Network Engaged Scholarship Project
Mokopane Charles Marakalala 1, Mahlodi Mothapo 2
1,2 College of Law, School of Criminal Justice, Department of Police Practice, University of South Africa, Youth-Network Engaged Scholarship Project, Preller Street Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 85-98, 2025
Abstract: Research shows that engagement vision of higher education as an asset for Social Justice in South Africa and in Africa by combating drugs and substance abuse. In 2024, The Youth-Network Engaged Scholarship Project conducted site visit with the communities in South African . The project’s goal is to raise community awareness about the efficacy of law enforcement’s efforts to combat drug and substance misuse. Specifically, it aims to determine if our law enforcement is winning the battle against drug and substance abuse in the South African community. Furthermore, it looks at the effects of substance abuse and drug usage on a young participant’s life both during and after matriculation. The goal of The Young-Network ES Project for the 2024 academic year is to collaborate with various stakeholders in the Western Cape (Cape Town Community) and Limpopo (Mokopane and Polokwane) to combat drug and substance addiction as well as life after matric among young participants and repercussions of drug usage among young people.. Young people who persistently abuse substances often experience an array of problems, including academic difficulties, health-related problems (including mental health), poor peer relationships, and involves law enforcement to address “Is Law Enforcement winning the fight against Drugs and Substance Abuse in South African Community”.
Keywords: Effectiveness, Law Enforcement, Awareness, Engaged Scholarship, Community, Drugs and Abstance Abuse.
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An Overview of Forensic Investigators in the Investigation of Mobile Fraud: The Study Case of the South African Banking Industry
Mokopane Charles Marakalala 1, Avhashoni Cynthia Madzivhandila 2
1,2 College of Law, School of Criminal Justice, Department of Police Practice, University of South Africa, Preller Street Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 99-110, 2025
Abstract: Research provides an overview of the role of forensic investigators in the examination of mobile fraud and identifies effective strategies to mitigate such fraud within the South African banking sector. The SABRIC annual report (2017-2022) outlined numerous instances of mobile fraud, categorized by factors such as revenue loss and fraudulent cash disbursements, alongside the implementation of biometric solutions aimed at addressing mobile fraud in this industry. Furthermore, the study highlighted that prevalent detection methods were marked by advancements in biometric solutions, which involved both external and internal personnel. Mobile fraud represents a multifaceted challenge that includes a variety of illicit activities, ranging from bid rigging prior to contract awards to fraudulent billing after contracts have been awarded. Mobile fraud can be perpetrated by both internal and external entities. This paper employs a design and methodology that relies on secondary data sources, primarily sourced from journal articles, online resources, and academic publications, to provide an overview of mobile fraud as examined by forensic investigators. It aims to identify effective strategies for combating mobile fraud within the South African banking sector. The study focuses on banking mobile fraud investigators who are part of units dedicated to addressing fraudulent activities in the industry. Key findings of the research indicate that the legal penalties and sentences imposed on mobile fraud offenders are inadequate, as highlighted in the SABRIC annual report from 2017 to 2022. The paper recommends implementing training programs for bank employees, raising customer awareness, creating a centralized mobile fraud database, and enhancing the judicial and legal frameworks surrounding mobile fraud in banking.
Keywords: Forensic Investigation, Investigation, Mobile Fraud, Biometric-Based Solution, Bank.
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Examining the Effects of Cyberbullying in South African Higher Education: Insights and Recommendations
Xolisile Khanyile 1, Nqobizwe Mvelo Ngema 2
1,2 University of Zululand, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 111-118, 2025
Abstract: This study explores the profound impact of cyberbullying within South African higher education institutions, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate its harmful effects. The findings reveal that cyberbullying significantly threatens students’ well-being, academic performance, and mental health, including issues such as depression and social anxiety. Consequently, the study emphasizes adopting multifaceted approaches to address this pervasive issue. To tackle cyberbullying effectively, the research recommends the implementation of proactive measures, such as awareness campaigns, clear institutional policies, and robust reporting mechanisms. Moreover, fostering an inclusive and empathetic campus culture, establishing strong support systems, and enforcing appropriate disciplinary actions are identified as critical components of the proposed strategies. The study further underscores the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders, including educational institutions, families, students, and the broader society, to create a united front against cyberbullying. Stakeholders can cultivate a safer online environment for all students by working together. Additionally, the research advocates for the South African Department of Basic Education to play a pivotal role in equipping educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to address cyberbullying both inside and outside the classroom. In conclusion, the study calls for a holistic and collaborative approach to combating cyberbullying in higher education. This approach should integrate preventive measures, supportive frameworks, and disciplinary actions to mitigate the extensive consequences of cyberbullying on students’ psychosocial development, self-esteem, and academic success. Immediate action and collective efforts are essential to ensure a secure digital environment for South African higher education students.
Keywords: Cyberbullying, South African Higher Education, Mental Health, Academic Performance, Student Well-being, Awareness Campaigns, Reporting Mechanisms, Prevention Strategies, Intervention Approaches
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Enhancing Sustainability with an Automated Financial Literacy Expert Advisor to Train and Educate on Generating Passive Income from Forex Trading
Kabelo Moroke 1 and Johnson Dehinbo 2
1,2 Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Information & Communications Technology,
Tshwane University of Technology, Soshanguve, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 119-140, 2025.
Abstract: The study recommends developing and developing Expert Advisors (EAs) to facilitate with foreign exchange market trading by leveraging financial technology to increase financial literacy and investing techniques. An EA model and forecasting model that analyses trading details and promptly provides a seller with precise outcomes for purchasing and selling extremely cost-effective guidelines save time. EAs are meant to automate trading procedures by analysing price movements and making accurate buying and selling recommendations using the SMA (Simple Moving Average) and ADX (average directional index) approach. This reduces decision-making time, increases accuracy, and makes investment more accessible. The study’s purpose is to encourage people to generate passive income through forex trading by matching their short-term and long-term financial goals with developing fintech trends for future financial sustainability. The proposed system is also user-friendly as it enables a trader to set and perform several trading processes strategies, and the model considers the trades that corresponds to each approach. This would be a valuable study as its inspiration to build passive income in the foreign exchange and technology market enables potentials contributing towards future sustenance of interested people in the society. As future sustenance of people is taken care of, then the society could experience developments meeting the needs of the present and progressively making it easier for future generation to maintain and improve.
Keywords: Average Directional Index (ADX), automation, Expert Advisors (EAs), foreign exchange market literacy, forex trading, Simple Moving Average (SMA).
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A Strategy for Poverty Eradication towards Sustainable Development
Motadi Masa Sylvester
Department of Public Management, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 141-154, 2025.
Abstract: This paper explores an integrated approach to poverty eradication aimed at sustainable development, highlighting the critical role of inclusive, community-driven strategies in addressing multi-dimensional poverty. Focusing on the socio-economic and environmental challenges experienced by vulnerable communities, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, this study examines how tailored poverty alleviation strategies, supported by governmental and non-governmental entities, foster resilience and economic empowerment. Utilizing an analytical framework that incorporates sustainable livelihood models, microfinance, and community-based interventions, the study reveals that poverty alleviation is most effective when local needs and cultural dynamics guide policy formation. Findings indicate that approaches emphasizing gender-sensitive economic empowerment, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation substantially enhance poverty reduction outcomes. The study draws on recent case studies and empirical data to analyze the synergies between poverty eradication and sustainable resource management. Notably, financial inclusion and entrepreneurial support emerged as transformative elements, enabling marginalized populations to build resilience against economic shocks and environmental degradation. Despite the successes documented, challenges persist in scaling localized interventions to a national level, highlighting the need for continuous policy adaptation and cross-sectoral collaboration. By emphasizing localized interventions, this research underscores the necessity of frameworks that bridge immediate poverty relief with long-term sustainability goals, ensuring that poverty eradication aligns with environmental resilience. This paper also addresses the limitations of current data collection systems and the complexity of measuring multi-dimensional poverty, suggesting that future research should incorporate qualitative assessments and longitudinal studies to enhance the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programs. The findings contribute to the discourse on sustainable development by identifying practical, culturally adaptive strategies that align poverty eradication efforts with environmental conservation, thereby offering a roadmap for policy innovation in the field of development studies. This study calls for increased investment in sustainable livelihoods, microfinance, and technology-driven solutions to support the world’s poorest communities in achieving lasting economic stability and environmental sustainability.
Keywords: Poverty eradication, Sustainable development, Community-based interventions, Financial inclusion, Environmental resilience, Microfinance
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Improving Sustainable Development with a Mentorship System to enhance Teaching and Learning for Universities in Developing Countries
Wilson Nchere 1, Johnson Dehinbo 2
1,2 Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Information & Communications Technology,
Tshwane University of Technology, Soshanguve, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 155-172, 2025
Abstract: Mentorship is an important aspect of helping studetnts to improve in their academic perfomance. Most students are improving when they get mentorship and this help them finish their qualifiaction on time. Some of the student are not aware of the mentorship that is provided in the university, even better some are scared to approach a mentor physically. Said issues should be tackled in order to help students in need of support on certain subjects which will help the university to reach one of it’s objective. Even then, booking for mentors is not straightforward and easy. Imagine having to fill out a paper each time one seeks mentorship from one of the mentors at the university. Currently the university uses a file system which requires that mentors and students need to fill forms to make appointments and this cost university as papers are wasted and hard to manage if they are lot of them. Such process is boring and tiring, and most importantly not in line with the goals of sustainable development. Furthermore, the university will have to generate their mentorship reports manually by going through all the papers that was filled by students and submitted by mentor. This study shows that mentorship is a critical factor in the performance of students. Most of the student are depending on mentorship to pass their modules and fulfill the requirements to obtain their qualification in time. A survey was initiated to see the performance of the students who seek mentorship and those who do not. Students who ask for mentorship have better performance than those who do not. Students need a 24 hour system that will help them manage their appointments (mentorship sessions) even as mentors use such system to make available relevant information and interactions to ease mentorship. The university also need such system to keep track of progresses relating to mentorship. This study aims to adress such problem and implement a system towards better student academinc performance at minimal cost, enhancing productivity and progress towards sustainability. In future evaluation of the system, a questionnaire would be administered across different types of users which include Students, Mentors, and University staff to provide their experience with the system and provide valid feedback. Evaluation of the developed system would be of assistance to the students in their quest for mentorship and to indicate to the students if mentorship is effective in their academic success. Meanwhile, attempts are made to ensure mobile friendliness as students access it even through their smartphones. A help page is provided if a user get stuck and need to know how the application works. The university should invest in this project as it will help cut cost and help with make crical decision in terms of deciding whether to exclude a student. The Mentorship system will bring about conveniency and better decision making by the university. Student could engage with this system as it is accessible from anywhere, so the students can make appointment at their own time. Since most schools provide free wifi access across the campus, assessing the application won’t be an issue. And with the change to the use of the system leading to possible better student academinc performance at minimal cost, productivity is enhanced and progress becomes sustainable
Keywords: Collaborative learning, knowledge sharing, mentorship, teaching and learning systems
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Advancement of technology in road safety: Review
Modipa Mmakwena
Tshwane University of Technology,
2 Aubrey Matlakala St, Soshanguve, Pretoria, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 173-182, 2025.
Abstract: Road traffic crashes remain a persistent global health crisis with road users facing an acute and rising risk of death. Due to high rate of fatalities on the road, the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030 stipulates that member countries need to halve the number of fatalities in their respective countries. This is a clear call that countries all over the world need to prioritise road safety, and the advancement of technology in this regard play a vital role as it could counteract factors contributing to road traffic accidents. This study attempts to examine the advancement of technology in road safety, challenges and opportunities. This qualitative article adopted the non-empirical research design: Systematic review. This study is completely based on the secondary data. A systematic review was done in detail for the collected literature. The key findings indicate that technology has improved road safety all over the world and assisted road traffic authorities in curbing fatalities on the road. The findings further indicate that misuse of technology by road users contribute to distraction on the road which lead to fatalities. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended that technology should be improved in the road traffic authorities and be maintained to assist in getting accurate results and ensure compliance to the rules of the road. It is accordingly recommended that training should be provided to law enforcement officials to have knowledge and skills about technology.
Keywords: Technology, Road Safety, Challenges, Opportunities, Law Enforcement and South Africa
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Enhancing Resource Empowerment Through Input Provision, Production Efficiency, and Operational Efficiency: Evidence from Resource-Poor Citrus Farmers in South Africa
Victor Mmbengwa 1, Joseph Sello Kau 2, Jan Swanepoel 3
1 Department of Agricultural Economics and Animal Production University of Limpopo,
2 Agricultural Economist, Agricultural Research Council, South Africa.
2 University of Free State, South Africa.
3 Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, University of the Free State, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 183-198, 2025.
Abstract: Globally, government support programs for farmers often prioritize farm input provision while overlooking the critical role of operational efficiency in enabling autonomous decision-making. In South Africa, limited research has explored the application of resource-based theory in agriculture. This study examines the effects of input provision, production efficiency, and operational efficiency on resource empowerment among resource-poor citrus farmers. It also investigates the mediating role of production efficiency and the potential moderating effect of operational efficiency in these relationships. Data were collected through field surveys involving 401 citrus producers across six provinces. Exploratory factor analysis confirmed sample adequacy, and the Hayes process macro model provided the empirical framework. The results demonstrate significant effects of input provision (β = 0.575, p < 0.05), production efficiency (β = 0.207, p < 0.05), and operational efficiency (β = 0.533, p < 0.05) on resource empowerment. Production efficiency mediated resource empowerment (β = 0.508, p < 0.01), but operational efficiency showed no significant moderation (e.g., path a_1 × d_1: β = -0.0297, p > 0.05). These findings highlight critical deficiencies in farmers’ operational efficiency capabilities. The study underscores the importance of integrating operational efficiency skill development into policy frameworks to empower farmers and enhance sustainable decision-making. By addressing these gaps, this research enriches the application of resource-based theory in agriculture and offers actionable insights for improving government support programs in South Africa.
Keywords: efficiency, input, moderation, operational, production, resource.
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Digital Transformation in Environmental Health Data Management: A Contemporary Need
Siphesihle Siyamukela Masimula 1, Mpinane Flory Senekane 1*, Nisha Naicker 1,2
1 Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2001, South Africa.
2 National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg 2094, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 199-210, 2025.
Abstract: In this age, Environmental Health needs to digitally transform its data management system to embrace the digital paradigm shift in society and leverage all presented opportunities. Digital transformation has changed how many organisations operate and deliver value to their customers by harnessing the power of data to gain valuable insights and improve operational efficiencies. Data in Environmental Health is key to enabling practitioners and decision-makers to implement data-driven measures to protect people’s health and the environment. This study aimed to assess digital transformation and the use of data in the provision of Environmental Health Services in 11 municipalities in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods study design was used, starting with a quantitative phase that entailed an online survey, whereby 105 environmental health practitioners participated. The qualitative phase followed, where 10 environmental health managers were interviewed. For data analysis, IBM SPSS Statistics 29.0 was used for quantitative data, and the ATLAS.ti software version 24.0.0.29576 was used for qualitative data. Data from both phases were integrated to derive joint results. The results indicate that most environmental health practitioners (66.7%) were not satisfied at all with the digitalisation of Environmental Health data management in their municipalities. Data management practices were found to be mainly paper-based and ineffective. As a result, administrative work overburden was reported by 90.5% of the environmental health practitioners and negatively affected their use of data for decision-making (p=0.038). These results indicate a need for the review and digitalisation of Environmental Health data management in South Africa, to streamline operational processes, and leverage available opportunities. The adoption of digital technologies and improvement of data use can enable evidence-based decision-making, lead to more proactive and effective delivery of Environmental Health Services and yield better health outcomes in the community.
Keywords: Data use, digital transformation, Environmental Health, Environmental Health data management, Public Health
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The importance of road construction engineering in preventing pedestrian fatalities in Limpopo Province
Modipa Mmakwena
Tshwane University of Technology,
2 Aubrey Matlakala St, Soshanguve, Pretoria, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 211-222, 2025.
Abstract: The human suffering caused by road traffic accidents is substantial, primarily due to inadequate road infrastructure. Beyond the significant loss of life and injury, road accidents also place a heavy financial strain on the nation, encompassing losses in productivity, healthcare costs, social welfare, and the emotional toll of pain, grief, and suffering. The Department of Transport, its affiliated agencies, and road construction firms have a critical responsibility in ensuring a safer and more secure road network. This study employed a quantitative research approach, involving a sample of 195 respondents, including 15 civil engineering firms, 23 civil society organizations, 52 community members, 51 teachers, and 54 traffic police officers. The findings from the study revealed among many others, most of the study respondents (72%), either strongly agreed or agreed with this hypothesis. However, those who were 36 years and above, as well as the singles strongly agreed or agreed the most. 9.40% indicated a “don’t know” response to this hypothesis, while 18.60% disagreed or strongly disagreed that road construction engineering could prevent pedestrian fatalities in Limpopo Province. Therefore, based on the responses, road construction engineering could prevent pedestrian fatalities in Limpopo Province. Based on the findings of the study the author provided possible recommendations such as separating pedestrians from cars, enhancing visibility at night, and reducing motorised speeds as well as meeting the need for road infrastructure improvements.
Keywords: Road safety engineering, pedestrians, fatalities, Limpopo Province and South Africa
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Do not drink and attack: An exploration into how management can address alcohol abuse as a catalyst to gender-based violence and femicide attacks in institutions of higher learning
Kagiso Nicholas Tlou 1, Debra Claire Pheiffer 2
1,2 Department of Law, Safety and Security Management, Soshanguve South Campus, Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa.
Volume 18, Issue 09, Pg. 223-232, 2025.
Abstract: Violent attacks are not something that is foreign in South Africa, this country has experienced so much violence and loss of life under the unjust rule of the apartheid regime. After a lot of bloodshed and sacrifices done by the oppressed, fighting with the oppressors for an unjust and liberated South Africa. South Africa became a democratic country in 1994. The fight black president of South Africa, President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Spoke highly towards the idea of the use of education as a weapon that can be used to change the world. Education serves as one of the mechanisms that an individual can use to better their lives in South Africa. This practice starts from the primary schooling level that hosts young learners, usually from grade R to grade 7; high schooling level usually hosts teenage learners, usually from grade 8 to grade 12 and then the apex being the tertiary schooling level that usually hosts adults, this is the education level that produces graduates.
The tertiary school level has much freedom and the need for students to find and fend for themselves towards their schooling journey. It is where students can easily access alcohol or have the limitless ability to go have fun without worrying about coming home to angry parents or guardians. It is also where irresponsible drinking, can lead to perpetration or victimisation of Gender Based Violent and Femicide attacks in institution of higher learning that they are studying at. This paper aims to explore how alcohol contributes to Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBV) attacks in institutions of higher learning and to develop initiatives that can be used by management in these institutions to address this phenomenon. The research methodology used in this paper was qualitative in approach, with samples comprising that of 12 gender-based violence stakeholders from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
The data collected was primary and secondary – primary data being the interviewing of the stakeholders and secondary data being the literature that was reviewed. Ethical clearance was provided from TUT for the researchers to conduct this study. The findings include a clear need for more information about how alcohol abuse can influence GBV and Femicide attacks; the dangers posed by alcohol related gender-based violence attacks on the victim and perpetrator; and managements and government’s role in restricting alcohol consumption in institutions of higher learning. The discussion and recommendations represent initiatives that can be used to address the scourge, that is gender-based violence.
Keywords: Alcohol abuse, Campus community members, Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, Institutions of Higher Learning, Management.
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