Theses and Dissertations

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Challenges faced by traditional healers when treating people living with HIV and AIDS : the case of Intsika municipality, Eastern Cape Province
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Zimba, Zibonele France
The aim of the study was to examine the procedures followed by traditional healers treating people living with HIV and AIDS in the Instika Municipality and the challenges faced by them in this endeavour. Using the qualitative research method, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with twenty traditional healers. Among the significant findings of this study were the hardships encountered by traditional healers in terms of finance, the transport needed to collect medicinal plants, the shortage of medicinal plants, the lack of co-operation from the formal health care sector and the discrimination and abuse suffered at the hands of members of the community, with Christians and members of the SAPS being among the chief antagonists. It is also acknowledged in this study that traditional healers have been trained by the Department of Health concerning issues of hygiene and that traditional healers have knowledge of the symptoms of HIV and AIDS. It can therefore be concluded that traditional healers have a significant role to play in preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS if they employ preventative measures such as the use of protective gloves and limiting the use of a blade to one patient only. However, traditional healers are not supplied with safety kits or condoms to distribute to patients who consult them for treatment of STIs.
Child support grant and child poverty alleviation: experiences of caregivers in alleviating child poverty.
(University of Fort Hare, 2016) Vaaltein, Sive
Patel (2015) argues that “social security policies address structural problems or an underlying cause of poverty and inequality in the society. In addition it creates a minimum standard of living below which the population should not fall”. This dissertation explores the experiences of caregivers who receive the Child Support Grant (CSG - a social assistance or social security policy) to alleviate child poverty in Buffalo City Metropolitan (BCM). The question this study seeks to address is: How does the CSG address child poverty in BCM? International instruments regulating South Africa on policy issues relating to child poverty are at the back drop of the discussion and exploration of the CSG as means to alleviate child poverty in a context such as BCM. Theoretically framing the study using the Social Development Approach (SDA) assisted in viewing the CSG from a developmental contribution point of view, when examining the caregiver’s experiences of using the CSG to alleviate child poverty. The child focused multidimensional model (CFMDM) further brought into perspective aspects of child poverty, which became the focus for this study. A qualitative research method was utilised to explore the experiences of caregivers who use the CSG to alleviate child poverty in BCM. Research participants were drawn based on a non- probable sample of BCM caregivers receiving the CSG, with which semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were conducted. This study discovered that due to high unemployment of the caregivers living in BCM the CSG was not directly improving the lives of children living in poverty, as the caregivers solely depended on the receipt of the CSG to care for their children and other sources of income were not available for the participating care givers.
Coping with poverty : a study of strategies adopted by single mothers in Chiredzi town , Zimbabwe
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Mafa, Itai
This research sought to assess the effectiveness of the coping strategies that are employed by single mothers in alleviating and averting poverty in Chiredzi Town, Zimbabwe. The researcher wanted to investigate whether the survival strategies implemented in towns of developing countries are able to rescue single mothers from the grasps of poverty.
Ecotherapy in post-conflict healing: a study of the experiences of ex-combatants in the Eastern Cape township of Mdanstane
(University of Fort Hare, 2011) Mbona, Sifingo
During this research project, an attempt was made to understand the role of ecotherapy as a therapeutic model in post conflict healing. The aim was to evaluate the application and significance of ecotherapy as an intervention strategy for post conflict healing for individuals who were exposed to violent encounters during the liberation struggle. Eight respondents (involved in the arms struggle) from Mdanstane Township in the Eastern Cape, were taken through a series of workshops as part of an ecotherapy healing process. The research concluded that all the participants had suffered from some form of traumatic stress because of their exposure to violence and violent experiences. Moreover, on closer examination the situation of ex-combatants proved to be more complex and often volatile, due to the absence of social support, loss of social status, absence of economic, employment opportunities, and the dislocation from their families and communities. Subsequent to the ecotherapy intervention, a positive outlook amongst the participants was recorded. Furthermore, there was an indication of a significant increase in their sense of self-worth and personal development, which influenced the manner in which the participants viewed the world, related to their families or communities and responded to life in general. Essentially, the research findings, conclusions, and recommendations contributed towards a better understanding of ex-combatants and the value that could be derived from ecotherapy as a post conflict healing method for individuals and groups exposed to violence and trauma.
An evaluation of the role of child and youth care centres in the implementation of South Africa's Children's Act
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Agere, Leonard Munyaradzi
The aim of this study was to evaluate the role played by CYCCs to provide support and protection to children who have been found to be in need of care, according to the criteria given in the Children’s Act No. 38/2005 as amended. The study made use of a qualitative approach and the research design was provided by the case study. Data was gathered by means of semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The most important findings to emerge from the study were that the factors which affect the operation of CYCCs are either institutional, or else challenges arising from issues pertaining to infrastructure and human resources. However, it was also acknowledged that, despite the challenges which affect their ability to provide their services to young people, the CYCCs had also made progressive steps to halt the suppression of the fundamental rights of children. It has been recommended that the government should apply comprehensive funding to the objectives of the Children’s Act, which would entail increasing the subsidies to CYCCs. It has also been recommended that the Policy on Financial Rewards should call for the same benefits and salary scales to apply for professional staff working in the government and to those working in the CYCCs. The repercussions from failing to adjust to these recommendations will inevitably lead to the employment of a remedial model of care.
The experiences of adolescents preparing to leave foster care on the grounds of age in East London.
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Tarisai, Mugove Kadungure
Adolescents in the process of leaving foster care often have personal histories characterized by instability and one or more related factors such as poor parenting, separation from their families, poverty, abuse, neglect, abandonment, personal loss and disruptions resulting from displacement. As a result, these adolescents are often unprepared to be released from the support provided by government institutions. As few studies have investigated the experiences of children in foster care in South Africa, the principal aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of adolescents leaving the foster care system in East London, South Africa when they reach the age requiring them to do so. The qualitative method was adopted for this study, and thirty-five in-depth interviews were conducted. The study found that for children in foster care the adolescent stage is the most crucial. It was also learned that the foster care process itself is long, arduous and complex. The adolescents experience stress and uncertainty and are not given any support from the government or social workers as they approach the age at which they will be required to leave foster care. It is recommended that support be extended at least until after secondary schooling has been completed and the adolescents are able to fend for themselves.
The experiences of cultural marriage practice( "Ukuthwala ") amongst young african women : a case study of Libode , Eastern Cape
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Ndindwa, Thunyiswa
The study set out to investigate the experiences of young African women in Libode village in Eastern Cape regarding Ukuthwala cultural marriage practice. The objectives of the study included; to find out the experiences of the young African women who have been forced to go through Ukuthwala; to examine the kind of support these young African women receive from their social networks; to examine the kind of assistance that the social service professionals could provide to these young African women and lastly to find out from them the kind of empowerment services they require. Qualitative method was used whereby in-depth interviews were conducted with fifteen participants and five service providers and data was analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that Ukuthwala is an immense challenge and has affected many of the women in Libode, educationally, health wise, emotionally, physically and psychologically. The study recommends that the parents, community and government should be the major stakeholders in the fight against Ukuthwala practice. Parenting and awareness programmes should be held as to educate parents about the rights of their children and counselling should be offered to those who would have been the victims of this practice.
The experiences of women leaving an abusive marriage.
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Thompson, Merise Clare
The focus of this study is to determine the experiences of women leaving an abusive marriage. These experiences are classified in terms of support factors and challenges when leaving. Included in this study are the circumstances that contributed to making a decision to leave the abusive situation and the long-term effects on the participants. Domestic violence is a highly prevalent phenomenon that is found all over the world, including South Africa. According to some research, the extent of family violence warrants an urgent solution to be devised, as a comparison is drawn between family violence and human rights violations. This study was conducted, using Interpretative Phenomenological Methodology. Fifteen women were interviewed by way of using semi-structured questions. The scope of this study included investigating: the types of abuse; childcare issues; the process of leaving – including the role of the justice, medical and religious institutions; long-term effects of abuse and the role of self-worth in deciding to leave. It was found that there was a significant correlation between the literature and the evidence found through this study in terms of challenging and support factors. Challenging factors for participants included: isolation; financial dependence on the abuser; perceived or real lack of social support; a lack of awareness around the effects of the abuse on the children and a diminished sense of self. In contrast to this are the support factors which included: family support, financial independence, evidence of harm to the children and a renewed sense of value in the ‘self’. Recommendations for practice describe ways in which the medical, justice and social service departments can enhance their services to families who are living in abusive circumstances by using a strengths-based approach.
An exploration of the effectiveness of community home -based care programmes in mitigating the effects of HIV and AIDS in rural areas in Zimbabwe : the case of Shurugwi district
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Mangwiro, Vongai Patience
The aim of the dissertation was to explore the effectiveness of Community Home-based Care programmes in mitigating the effects of HIV and AIDs in rural areas in Zimbabwe in Shurugwi. Triangulation method was used to collect and analyze data from one hundred and sixty four respondents using survey questionnaires and in-depth- interviews. Theoretically, the study was underpinned by the Basic Needs Approach which supports that every human being needs food, shelter and health in order for one to have a meaningful life. The findings of the study showed that CHBC programmes are effective in improving the conditions of the patients and also in mitigating the effects of HIV and AIDS in societies. Nevertheless, the findings show that patients still suffer in the long-run to improve their conditions because of lack of resources and food, shortage of funds and CHBC kits, and donor fatigue. Resultantly, this gives a double burden to all the caregivers when they provide palliative care to patients. Conclusively, more should be done to improve the conditions of the patients because they still face problems in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
An exploration of the practice of cross- Racial adoption South Africa, East london
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Kausi, Nyasha
The purpose of this research was to explore the practice of cross-racial adoption in South Africa using a case study of East London. The study was qualitative in nature and employed both in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to collect data from six social workers, two managers, seven adoptive parents and five community members. These were most appropriate for eliciting relevant, valuable and rich information for analysis. The process of collecting data also made use of observations. Data was analysed qualitatively, using thematic analysis of the content of the data, which employed an interpretative approach, resulting in a presentation of data, which is textual rather than statistical. The study found that the practice of cross- racial adoption (CRA) in South Africa is a controversial, yet an increasing phenomenon in which most Black children are being adopted by White parents. In addition, race and culture were found to have a great impact on shaping the practice of CRA. The roles of social workers, managers and adoption agencies were examined in the following contexts: determining the adoptability of children; recruiting and selection of prospective adoptive parents; the provision of necessary information and counselling to biological and adoptive parents before consenting to the adoption of a child; helping with placement transitions and providing post-adoption services to ensure lasting and strong adoptive relationships. In addition, perceptions of issues such as cultural genocide, the well-being and the best interests of adopted children, racial identity, a colour-blind society, acculturation, racial consciousness and role modelling were also examined. The study concluded that although the practice of CRA is an acceptable form of custody for children in need of care and protection, despite any legislation pertaining to it, it is still an area which requires more attention from scholars and researchers. It should be a matter of national importance from relevant officials and policy makers in order to overcome the legacy of racial segregation, which characterised the era of apartheid rule, in which race was of great significance. On the basis of the findings of the study, pertinent recommendations have been made to various stakeholders, including social workers, the Department of Social Development and policy makers.
Exploring the lack of adherence to antiretroviral treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS linked to Victoria Hospital, Eastern Cape
(University of Fort Hare, 2015) Mboto, Yandisa Constance
The research was based on exploring the lack of adherence to antiretroviral treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS in the case of Victoria Hospital, Eastern Cape. The main research objectives were to explore factors contributing to Lack of adherence on ARVs. To determine the role of the family in supporting PLWHA on adhere on ARVs. Investigate why women living with HIV/AIDS were more likely to adhere to treatment. The study was qualitative, exploratory and descriptive in nature, with 22 participants which compromised male and females. The research tool was in-depth interviews, utilised semi structured (open –ended) questions to gain insight into the experiences, feelings and opinions of the participants. Data analysis was conducted using coding and themes. The research findings revealed that PLWHA in Alice and the surrounding rural areas are faced with many challenges concerning adherence to ARVs, namely: poverty, experience disfiguring side effects, financial constraints, and transport related factors, experience of lack of support, stigmatisation and discrimination negative influence of alcohol consumption, forgetfulness, and lack of knowledge about ARVs and separation and divorce. Recommendations were made with regard to increasing the rate of adherence of PLWHA to antiretroviral treatment.
Exploring the phychosocial challenges associated with traditional male circumcision practice from the lenses of the newly initiated men :the case of Lusikisiki Phondoland area - Eastern Cape, South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2015) Nomngcoyiya, Thanduxolo
This research study explored psychosocial challenges associated with traditional male circumcision (TMC) practice from the lenses of the newly initiated men, their families, traditional nurses and the communities in Lusikisiki, Phondoland region. The study intended to achieve the following specific objectives: (i) examine the psychosocial impact of traditional male circumcision practice on newly initiated men, (ii) establish the families, communities and traditional nurses’ concerns on the extent of damage caused by traditional male circumcision practice, (iii) establish the psychosocial support systems provided by the government and community networks on traditional male circumcision practice victims and their families.
Exploring the quality of life of single mothers : the case of Marondera town, Zimbabwe
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Munzara, Memory
The aim of the study was to explore the quality of life of single mothers in Marondera town. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) determine the extent to which single mothers were satisfied with their lives (ii) investigate the challenges that single mothers’ experience (iii) examine the coping mechanisms adopted by single mothers in the face of challenges (iv) investigate any form of support that single mothers’ access from any quarter/stakeholder. Using the quantitative method, one hundred and ninety-nine questionnaires were administered to single mothers in Marondera town and 186 were returned fully answered. The major findings of this study outlined that financial challenge is one of the greatest problems that single mothers face, which in turn affects other areas of their lives and that of their children. As a result of lack of adequate finances single mothers in Marondera have indicated that they struggle to meet their daily basic needs, hence they are affected by poverty as well as lack of social support. These all affected their well-being and quality of life was lowered due to stresses related issues of being a sole breadwinner for the family and they were generally not satisfied with their lives. It can be concluded that single motherhood affects the quality of life of these families in Zimbabwe which has been heightened by the economic crisis that has hit the country for the past two decades. Single mothers face the brunt effects of the economic meltdown that affected the nation as a whole, hence their quality of life is lower than that of a normal family where both spouses are present, in taking care of the family and sharing the burden.
Exploring the vulnerability of black women to HIV and AIDS in Zimbabwe :a case of Masvingo urban area
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Chikono, George
The problem question that this study seeks to address is the perpetual defencelessness of women to HIV and AIDS. The study was greatly influenced by personal concern on the circumstances of predominantly black women in the 21st century as they continue to lag behind in many aspects of life. They continue to be the custodian of poverty and it is so perturbing that on top of being marginalised again they constitute lamentable statistics of HIV and AIDS infection. Hence, in the quest to understand the life dynamics which influence black women vulnerability qualitative research methodology was implemented so as to examine the subject matter. Purposive sampling technique was applied to select participants from various support groups in Rujeko and Mucheke High density suburbs as well as practitioners from pre-HIV test and post-HIV test counselling centres within Masvingo urban area. Findings unanimously pinpoint the economic hardships and series of dry seasons that the nation has been experiencing. Tilted public terrain forced women in Masvingo urban area and girls as young as 10years of age survive by selling sex for subsistence. Lack of industrial activity, poor infrastructure, sky rocketing living standards, low educational attainment and high level of unemployment are indicators of poverty and prime determinants of high HIV prevalence among most black women. It is because of above mentioned life circumstances that women encounter which makes them more prone to HIV infection as they end up indulging in transactional sex in order to provide food on the table. Moreover, HIV and AIDS prevalence has soared among women due to the fact that the patriarchal system is still instrumental in the mainstream resulting in women being side lined. The vicious system does not only condone women domination but it fuels women exploitation signified by exclusive male hegemony in the public sphere. Interestingly, Masvingo urban area is the second city from Beitbridge border post but despite of its proximity to the port of entry it is still underdeveloped since most of manufacturing industries are concentrated in Harare. Notably, the government response to women vulnerability has been substantial in the free provision of antiretroviral treatment (ART) but this has done little to transform the livelihood of People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA). However, there have emerged some NGOs which try to cushion the burden especially for those suffering to the disease by helping them form support groups as well as equipping them with life skills. Ironically, men who are regarded as perfect transmitters of the scourge due to their biological make up continue to be onlookers in prevention campaigns. The study recommends that men have to spearhead the acceptance of voluntary counselling and HIV testing as well as becoming instrumental in prevention campaigns. Also there is need for laws which instil follow-ups and accountability particularly service delivery to People Living with HIV and AIDS. Ignoring the circumstances of black women in the mainstream outweighs the possible achievement of an HIV free generation.
The implications of stigma towards people living with HIV / AIDS in the township of Dimbaza, Buffalo city metropolitan municipality
(2014) Xabendlini, Sindiswa
HIV/AIDS-related stigma is still a stumbling block to HIV/AIDS prevention strategies in many communities. The phenomenon of stigma affects the social functioning of HIV positive individuals and their mental state as well. This study therefore, sought to explore the implications of stigma towards people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in the Township of Dimbaza. Multiple sources of data or data triangulation were employed. The study made use of individual in-depth interviews which consisted of 10 individuals who were HIV positive from an organisation working with PLWHA in the township and a focus group discussion comprising of 8 practitioners. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse data and the strengths perspective was used as a lens for discussing the research findings. The findings showed that PLWHA and community members had accepted HIV/AIDS through empowerment from HIV/AIDS debates, but stigma still existed among some people. It was found that mythical beliefs which were propelled by some traditional leaders were vehicles of stigma. Results also revealed that PLWHA were stigmatised by some of the practitioners who were supposed to protect them. PLWHA showed their potential and strengths in dealing with stigma but required more assistance and support to encourage them. Therefore, it was recommended that assistance from eclectic stakeholders for the sustainability of their activities to reduce HIV/AIDS-related stigma and to get strengthened would make them achieve their intended goals on their own.
Intra-household decision making dynamics in the use of social grants : a case study of Tyutyu Village in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2015) Makosa, Nigel
The aim of this study was to investigate intra household decision-making dynamics in the usage of social grants, particularly the Child Support and Foster Care grant. The area of study was Tyutyu village where the research sample and participants were drawn. The data were collected with semi structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The principle behind this survey is that, besides the government handing out social assistance to an increased number of beneficiaries, they is an increment in the number of allegations of families misusing grant money because of poor decision-making. It emerged in the study that women are the prominent decision makers in terms of the usage of the Child Support and Foster Care grant. In addition, women are the decision makers because of the high rates of divorce, and children end up being raised by a single parent (mother). It has also been said by participants that decisions made by women often lead to productive outcomes compared to a state of affairs where the male physical body is sorely in control of the resources. The survey also proved that they are either very small, or no consultation with the beneficiaries of the Child Support and Foster Care grants when decisions are being made on spending the grant money. The grounds being that the children are still immature, hence, are not capable of producing any meaningful conclusions. Nevertheless, kids who are 16 years and above can reason and are mindful of their preferences, therefore, they should be included in the decision making process. Guardians need to make decisions for children under 15 years of age, because they are still young. In order for social assistance to be effective as a poverty alleviation strategy, they is a need to comprehend the decision making process in the household. Furthermore to improve intra-household decision making, this study recommends that household heads and guardians need to be educated on decision making. Such educational programmes should be coordinated and carried out by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). This will in a way ensure that the grant serves its intended function.
An investigation on the motherly roles played by grandmothers as caregivers in rearing children in South Africa: A case study of Zwelitsha location in the Eastern Cape.
(University of Fort Hare, 2016-06) Ntsomi, Qhama
Grandmothers of today are playing motherly roles in rearing their grandchildren. This study sought to investigate the experiences of motherly roles played by grandparents in rearing children;, the challenges faced by grandmothers in becoming full parents again; the kind of support that grandmothers as care givers receive from social service practitioners to meet the needs of the children under their custodial care; and the kind of empowerment services the grandmothers need to provide motherly care to their grandchildren. The study utilized a qualitative research method in the form of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The process was made possible through the use of purposive sampling and quota sampling to generate the targeted respondents of the study. The study was framed within the structural functionalism theory and the system theory. The structural functionalism theory suggests that all social institutions, including family, exist to fulfil a need in every society as grandparents are there to fulfil a need especially in time of crisis. This has inspired researchers to look to broader societal forces that express changes in the family and adapt to other changes and paradigms that are valuable for the study of grandmothers who are rearing children. On the other hand, the systems theory advances that the family, just like the group, is a system interacting with its environment like all living organisms. The theory was befitting for this study since grandmothers are resuming motherly roles to ensure the upkeep of their grandchildren in the absence of their biological parents. The results of the study have shown that most of grandmothers have emotional problems and are not doing well physically. In addition, some grandmothers find it difficult to access social welfare services from the government and because of various reasons. Some of them reside in some areas that are far reaching and can hardly access information and basic service delivery services. Moreover, the study has shown that the grandmothers do fulfil motherly roles though they are besieged by their age and financial problems. In some situations, they play roles that may go beyond those of the biological mothers.
Male perspectives on Gender violence in South Africa: The case of Nkonkobe Municipal Area.
(University of Fort Hare, 2008-11) Danga, Talent
The study explores the experiences of men who perpetrated violence against women in the domestic sphere. The study’s overarching concern is that violence has been largely seen as a women’s problem and not an issue that is Central to men and yet in most cases are the perpetrators of this violence. Consequently‚ men have not been targeted in initiatives that curb domestic violence (Salo, 2005). It is in this frame of reference that this study saw it imperative to focus on the male perspective of gender violence. The study aims to find factors that contribute to male violence and in turn recommend practical and appropriate strategies of dealing with male violence perpetrators.
Old age grant and food security in South Africa : the case of Goshen village community, Amathole manicipality
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Ncube, Ntombizehlile
The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the Old Age Grant on boosting the food security of the rural-household dwellers in the Goshen community in the Amathole Municipality in South Africa. The study investigated the extent to which the Old Age Grant ensures the food security of its beneficiaries at the household level. This study was conducted in the Goshen Community, a rural area in the Eastern Cape. Methodological triangulation was adopted for this study, in that a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods of collecting data was employed. The data was collected by making use of household survey questionnaires and focus group discussions.
Perception of males on the relationship between sexual risk taking behaviors and HIV/ AIDS in Nkonkobe Municipality
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Sonjani, Zolani Mario
The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of males on the relationship between sexual risk taking behaviours and HIV/AIDS in Nkonkobe Municipality with the following objectives: to explore the risk taking behaviours relevant in Hogsback Township and Msobomvu location; to explore the perceptions of males regarding the relationship between sexual risk taking behaviours and HIV/AIDS; to determine the perceptions of males towards HIV/AIDS test; to suggest strategies to ameliorate the lives of males in Hogsback Township and Msobomvu location. A research method that was employed in this study was quantitative and it took the form of mini survey.

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