Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'EThekwini Municipal Area'

Preliminary investigations on energy efficiency of manufacturing firms operating in South Africa have shown that no previous study on the barriers and drivers to energy efficiency was conducted. It was also found that South Africa is the only member within the Brazilian, Russian, Indian, Chinese and South African (BRICS) community that has not conducted any formal study on the drivers and barriers to Energy efficiency despite the current energy challenges the country faces. Whilst the National Energy Efficiency Strategy (NEES) was developed and targets were set to improve the country’s efficiency landscape, this strategy failed to account for the barriers and drivers to energy efficiency operating within the local context. This research study sets out to investigate whether an energy efficiency gap exists within manufacturing firms operating in the eThekwini Municipal Area (EMA) and by inference, the national context. It goes on further to analyse the drivers and barriers to Energy Efficiency (EE) within such firms. Such drivers and barriers are then analysed by firm characteristics and across manufacturing sectors. The results are interesting and contribute well to the general body of knowledge on EE in South Africa. It was found that whilst there is a degree of adoption and awareness of EE technologies amongst manufacturing firms, the quality of the adoption profile is poor. This poor quality profile suggests the possibility of an energy efficiency gap. The barriers and drivers that were found to be significant were also found to be mostly similar across manufacturing sectors. A main finding is that firms are very sensitive to cost and are mainly driven to adopt EE technologies only where there exists an opportunity for cost savings. It was also found that taken together, institutional barriers pose the greatest hurdle to EE adoption. Several interesting results were found in terms of how the barriers and drivers vary with the characteristics of the firm. The findings of this research indicate that more can be achieved in terms of energy efficiency within the manufacturing subsectors in South Africa. Policy-makers should take into consideration the salient findings of this research when drafting new policy on energy efficiency.<br>Dissertation (MEng)--University of Pretoria, 2017.<br>Graduate School of Technology Management (GSTM)<br>MEng<br>Unrestricted

Worldwide, it has been recognised that local governments are uniquely placed to bring about positive environmental change in their areas of jurisdiction. This research was conducted to assess how one South African local municipality, the eThekwini Municipality, Durban, is faring in its efforts to achieve sustainability. Hajer's (1993, 1995, 2003) discourse approach to environmental policy making was used as the key theoretical and methodological basis of the research. This approach recognises the power of discourse in shaping how society's relationship with the environment should be managed and sustained. In global environmental politics, ecological modernisation has emerged as the dominant environmental policy discourse and reflects a weak approach to sustainability. An alternative is the strong sustainability discourse, which argues that sustainability cannot be achieved without giving attention to issues of social and environmental justice and including local communities in environmental policy making. These two discourses are used to structure the assessment of environmental policy discourse in the eThekwini Municipality. A recent municipal project, "eThekwini Catchments 2002: A Strategic Tool for Planning" was used as the research case study. The project provides an assessment of the environmental health of each of the 18 river catchments identified in the municipal area, using environmental indicators. The intention of the project was for this information to be used by municipal planners as a tool for environmental decision-making. Municipal officials, representing several municipal sectors, and the project consultants were interviewed to determine their perspectives on the project. The interview transcripts, as well as the Catchments Project report and other municipal documents, were analysed using Hajer's discourse methodology to uncover the key discourses operating in the municipality that influence environmental policy making. Municipal discourse was then reviewed in terms of the EM and strong sustainability discourses to determine whether the municipality is moving towards stronger sustainability. This research also contributes to an improved understanding of how discourse shapes environmental policy projects and their outcomes. By identifying the environmental discourse dynamics at work, it is possible to stimulate a more deliberate approach to environmental policy making to bring about positive environmental change in the municipality.<br>Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2004.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are increasing in prevalence worldwide, including in developing countries like South Africa. If the assumption that ASDs manifests similarly across all cultures, then the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), the western gold standard for diagnosing ASDs, will be able to accurately discriminate those children that have ASDs from those that do not. The ADOS was designed to increase the likelihood of children displaying ASD type behaviours to facilitate a diagnosis, but this may negatively impact on scores obtained by African children which are socialised to be respectful as opposed to spontaneous. This research study formed part of the larger KwaZulu-Natal-ASD1 (K-ASD) study, and aimed to explore the diagnostic ability of the ADOS in special needs schools in the greater eThekwini area. The study design used a matched blinded sample comprising of an atypically developing ASD and non-ASD group from Black, White and Indian ethnicities. The sample came from special needs schools. The experimental group thus comprised people with ASD and the control group was a learning disabled group that did not have ASD. This study compared Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) algorithm scores of a sample of 26 children (6-11 years of age) who were administered modules 1-3 of the ADOS with the clinical diagnoses for each of these children. Using McNemar’s Westlake Schuirmann Test of equivalence it was found that the clinician diagnoses and the ADOS coding algorithm results were statistically equivalent. Thus, no significant difference existed between the two methods of diagnosis. The ADOS showed greater sensitivity in identifying symptoms associated with ASD than did the clinician diagnoses. An ANOVA revealed significant differences in the communication and the reciprocal social interaction algorithm’s. This indicates a cultural variation in behaviours, since Black participants behaved in various gestural ways that were significantly different to the manner in which Whites behaved to the ADOS testing.<br>Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2012.

Until recently it was fashionable to describe Durban as one of the fastest growing cities in the world. For those who held this view, the proliferation of informal settlements in and around the city pointed to massive rural-urban in-migration from the rural areas. Migration, itself, it was conceived, was typically the outcome of a direct move from the rural areas, whereby the migrant simply arrived in the city and took to squatting on any available land he or she could find. In actuality, while research has pointed out that substantial rural-urban in-migration is indeed a feature of the urban landscape, little light has been shed on the extent and nature of such migration. The aim of this dissertation is therefore to elucidate on these two features of the migration phenomenon. Through the application of the Todaro model of migration it is hoped that an understanding of the driving force behind migration to and within the Durban Functional Region could also be achieved.<br>Thesis (M.Com.)-University of Natal, Durban, 1994.

Disparities between housing, water and sanitation policy initiatives continuously undermine the efforts of informal settlements upgrading programme of transforming living conditions of people living in informal settlements. The objective of this research project was to explore the disparities between the above mentioned policy initiatives in informal settlements upgrading with the view to develop an understanding of various elements leading to these disparities. To achieve this research two case study areas were selected from which data was collected. The case studies were selected purposively. Household surveys were conducted from each of the two case studies and interviews were conducted with housing, water and sanitation officials. Findings of the research indicate that there are indeed disparities between housing, water and sanitation. It indicated that the disparities manifested themselves at various levels of policy. The nature of these disparities also varied according to the level at which they manifested. The research concludes that disparities in housing, water and sanitation manifest themselves in informal settlement upgrading. Various levels of policy indicate the manifestation of these disparities. Informal settlement upgrading efforts are undermined by the lack of coordination and integration in the implementation of policy. The research therefore recommends adjustments from all levels of policy from formulation to implementation. Housing, water and sanitation policy formulation process should be conducted in an integrated and coordinated manner. All parties involved in policy development and implementation should adopt high level of communication and consultation on all policy related issues. Policy objectives should be consolidated.<br>Thesis (M.Housing)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2009.

Given that access to adequate housing is defined under South Africa's constitution as a fundamental human right, it is understandable that the post Apartheid government focuses significant time and expense on establishing human settlements intended to redress the historically unequal distribution of wealth and resources. This thesis is concerned with looking at why, in spite of this attention, the government has underperformed in delivering low income housing projects that evolve into socially sustainable and integrated communities. Since there is no substantial evidence that a comprehensive study of the consolidation of human settlements has been done in South Africa, this research and the recommendations it engenders will be an important resource for planning truly sustainable and integrated human settlements in the future. Both theoretical and applied research methodologies were utilised in this thesis to examine specifically six human settlements in the KwaZulu-Natal Ethekwini region, selected for their diversity in terms of social, economic and location characteristics, as well as the differing historical circumstances surrounding their establishments. That the analysis included three settlements with Greenfield and social housing projects developed during the Apartheid regime and three settlements established after the 1994 democratic elections, permits comparisons to be drawn and so facilitates a deeper understanding of the successes and failures of the creation of sustainable housing settlements. A thorough review of the limited literature in South Africa in this field and an assessment of strategies contained in the National Housing Policy, was complimented by a more practical approach, including the use of a Delphi survey method, which was conducted with experts in the housing field, policy makers and settlement inhabitants, and extensive on site data collection. This investigation shows that, paradoxically, the Apartheid housing settlements, designed to entrench racial segregation and inequality, have in fact flourished as consolidated communities, in comparison with post Apartheid housing projects. The thesis draws the conclusion that in the Apartheid settlements inhabitants are using their housing units as an invaluable asset to improve their living conditions and to create a sustainable environment. However, in the settlements developed by the post Apartheid regime, inhabitants are struggling to use their home as an asset to improve their living conditions and to create a convenient and sustainable environment. Consequently, poverty, social exclusion and vulnerability of the beneficiaries of low-cost housing are deepening. While this does not justify the Apartheid policy of enforced removals or the subsequent social evils, the sense of ownership that ensued from forcing inhabitants to thererafter pay for their dwelling based on a calculated proportion of household income, is key to understanding this disparity. In comparison, post Apartheid housing policy, framed within a socialist agenda, does not allow for equitable distribution based on income levels and so for the mainly poor and economically inactive inhabitants, there is an absence of this same ownership incentive to either care for or improve the dwellings that they are given. Furthermore, the current National Housing Policy fails to take a holistic approach to the issue since its priority is simply meeting short-term high demand to eradicate the most visible effects of Apartheid. Subsequently, the National Housing Policy has failed to consider how access to education facilities for children, availability of consumer goods and the proximity to commercial activity, jostle with the need for shelter as high priorities for low income households, which fundamentally affects the success of any housing policy. For this reason, several beneficiaries of post Apartheid housing units have sold their homes to raise income to meet more pressing needs. All social housing settlements that formed the sample of this research study have long term viability issues and so replicating any model is problematic. The thesis suggests therefore, that in the future, legislators and policy makers look towards cultivating mixed use housing settlements centred around vibrant commercial, business and retail sites with connecting public transit and pedestrian networks, and various tenure options, including rentals, rent-to-buy and outright purchase. Development initiatives taking into considerations the reforms and recommendations outlined in this thesis could be implemented on housing projects that use developed buffer zones of land that were left over from the Apartheid era housing policy or on "lost spaces" within existing human settlements. The advantages of such a new approach for creating sustainable housing settlements provides an opportunity to link spatially and economically dislocated communities while ensuring beneficiaries and stakeholders in housing settlements meet a wider variety of needs. The conclusion that this thesis draws is that South Africa needs a post Apartheid approach to create sustainable human settlements. The Delphi Study reveals that the strategy to be adopted should represent the expectations of both policy-makers and beneficiaries. Consequently, this thesis proposes a sustainable housing development model and has developed guidelines and processes that take into consideration the many issues affecting housing policies and so becomes a workable tool for future housing professionals. Consolidated and integrated settlements that evolve into socially sustainable communities then becomes a real possibility.<br>Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2011.

International evidence demonstrates that Small, Medium and Micro-Enterprises (SMMEs) play a critical role in the growth and stimulation of developed and developing country economies. Within the South African context, the National Framework for Local Economic Development (LED) aims to support the development of sustainable local economies through integrated government action. This Framework will ensure that SMMEs have an element of support from a local government perspective. With greater responsibility being allocated to local government, interrogating what local authorities could do to support SMMEs is important. The dissertation reflects on the eThekwini Municipality’s approach to this issue by focusing on the support of small enterprises through business linkages, and assesses the role played by Small Business Fairs in this regard. The primary empirical component of the research examines the effectiveness of the municipality’s flagship SMME support initiative – the annual SMME Fair. Over 160 small businesses were surveyed. The survey found in general that the stallholders felt the Fair was beneficial. Apart from the usual problems related to the organization of the Fair, the exhibitors also identified a number of weaknesses that hinted at the municipality’s strategic approach. Much of the frustrations of the respondents were linked to not receiving direct benefits from the SMME Fair in relation to business contacts and increased sales and it is argued that the municipality should explore further the benefits of business linkages. The role of local government in stimulating SMME Fairs to establish suitable business linkages with the big businesses may assist in addressing this major weakness that was identified. The SMME Fair has the potential to provide an ideal platform SMMEs from which to create business linkages.<br>Thesis (M.Dev.Studies)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2010.

A dissertation submitted to the Faculty of Arts in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Master of Recreation and Tourism degree in the Department of Recreation and Tourism at the University of Zululand, 2009.<br>The differentially-abled tourism market is a niche market that could make a significant contribution to the region’s economy. This market is, however, a largely untapped activity in the study area. An Integrated National Disability Strategy White Paper was published in November 1997 by the South African government as a guideline to cater for those who have physical and related challenges. However, the contents of the strategy are not obvious or known to recreation service providers within the study area. The rights of people with disabilities are protected by the South African Constitution. People with disabilities should be able to access the same fundamental rights and responsibilities as any other South African. People with disabilities are equal citizens and should therefore enjoy equal rights and responsibilities. In line with this, tourism opportunities and equal participation in tourism activities should be the norm but this is not evident in the study area. This study therefore is based on the following objectives. The objectives have been formulated as component parts within the larger research goal. (a) To establish the respondents’ understanding of the meaning and importance of tourism for the differentially-able [physically challenged] in the study area. (b) To investigate the adequacy and provision of recreation facilities and services for the differentially-able [physically challenged] tourists in the study area. (c) To determine the extent to which the differentially-able [physically challenged] tourists visit and participate in recreation activities in the study area. establish the approximate number of differentially able tourist visiting the eThekwini Municipal Area. (d) To ascertain the strategies or management practices, which are used by the Ethekwini Municipal authorities to offer services to the differentially-able [physically challenged] tourists in the study area. (e) To investigate the extent to which recreation service providers are implementing the policy of Integrated National Disability Strategy, relating to recreation service provision for the differentially-able [physically challenged] persons in the study area. Through the postulation of some related hypotheses, the data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings of the research study established that many of the recreation service providers do not cater for this niche market. The activities offered by recreation service providers are geared towards able bodied tourists. Furthermore, many of the service providers are not aware of the contents of the Integrated Disability Strategy White Paper. Some are not even aware of the existence of such a White Paper. Tourism KwaZulu-Natal has conducted some research on the differentially-able market but has been slow to bring on board the relevant service providers. It is the contention of this study that the tourism authorities need to spearhead and be the driving force behind the campaign for empowering the differentially-able tourism related market. It would be in the region’s best interest to target this market, as it would secure sizeable revenue that would create positive spin-offs for the region as a whole. The study closes by proposing some recommendations towards ameliorating the plight of the physically challenged recreators and tourists. Some of these findings are: (a) National and regional tourism organization need to establish guidelines for tourism service providers with regard to tourism for the differentially-abled. (b) Develop tourist areas that cater for the needs of the differentially-abled in terms of transportation, accommodation, access to tourism sites and services. (c) Enlist the assistance of various organisations that cater for varying forms of disability to research the needs and challenges of its members in terms of travel. (d) Develop accessible websites with relevant information for the tourist as well as the service providers. (e) Provide incentives for tourism operators and service providers to cater for tourists with disability. Award prizes to those service providers who cater for the differentially-abled market. (f) Use the Integrated National Disability Strategy White Paper: November 1997 to develop educational and training programmes for tourism service providers. Differentially-abled persons could assist with the development of relevant programmes and could act as advisors.

An exploratory study was conducted to understand work related stress and substance use among the cemetery workers of the Ethekwini Municipality Anecdotal evidence suggested that in order to cope with the work related stress, this group of workers used substances like dagga and alcohol to cope with the stressors. A qualitative study was done in which focus group discussions were used to understand the cemetery workers' stressors and coping strategies with particular interest in the use of substances. A purposive sampling technique was used and six cemeteries out of twelve within the Ethekwini Municipality were chosen. All the workers in these cemeteries performed similar duties. The participants were on permanent contracts and were mainly adult males, with only a few female workers. They were from Indian and African ancestry. Thematic content analysis was used to explore their stressors and coping strategies. The cemetery workers' stress revolved around the intense and strenuous nature of their work with special reference to the exhumation of graves. Organisational structures and management practices that allowed for inadequate communication and little participation in the making of decisions, impacted negatively on their job satisfaction. The stresses were managed by a general acceptance of their working conditions, and the use of substances like dagga and alcohol during working hours. The data suggested that the stressors would be lessened if attention is paid to the improvement of communication between the participants and management, and to allow for a more participatory decision making, regarding aspects that directly influenced their daily activities. Proper induction and selection procedures are needed, and health promotion activities are needed on the dangers of substance use and healthy stress management strategies.<br>Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2005.

Millions of Black South Africans still lack access to adequate housing, mainly as a result of apartheid era development policies. The delivery of low income, state subsidised, housing includes the provision of water, sewer drainage and electricity supply services. These services are provided via individual connections to the bulk infrastructure, or grid, supply network. Whilst this delivery mechanism meets community aspirations, it masks the environmental impact of this access to natural resources. This research investigates the low income housing delivery mechanism in South Africa, both past and present, and considers the associated infrastructural service delivery in the context of what is understood as sustainable development. In order to identify a more environmentally sustainable format of service delivery, the notion of autonomous housing is investigated. This investigative research establishes the body of knowledge in respect of rainwater harvesting and renewable energy sources capable of being harvested at a domestic level and uses this knowledge to inductively derive theoretical models for the provision of water and electricity supply as well as sewer drainage to low income housing in the Ethekwini Municipal area. The objective of the research is therefore to propose a more autonomous, or self reliant, system of service delivery that constitutes sustainable development.<br>Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu- Natal, Durban, 2004.

Submitted in fulfillment for the degree of Magister Technologiae: Civil Engineering: Civil Engineering and Surveying, Durban University of Technology. Durban. South Africa, 2015.<br>Invariably, a high percentage of the population of South Africa depends on public transport. In order to continue to satisfy commuters in terms of comfort, travel time, reliability of service and traffic congestion, there is a need to improve the efficiency of moving passengers to reduce travel time, delay time and number of stops. In the quest for advancement and improvement in public transport, many countries now embark on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems based on the successful implementation of the system by cities like Curitiba (Brazil) and Bogota (Columbia). Government departments/transport authorities are often faced with the challenge of selecting the most suitable BRT system relative to the unique features of its transport demands and urban layout. Hence, this study proposes the determination of the most appropriate BRT system for the eThekwini Municipal Area (EMA). An in-depth literature review was conducted in order to determine the most adoptable BRT system amongst median, kerb side and segregated BRT systems, taking into consideration cost implications, safety of the passengers, pedestrian crossing, physically challenged commuters, vehicle option and manoeuvres. Physical assessment and critical review of the current operating BRT systems in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth in South Africa was employed in this study as well as a critical comparison among these systems. The pros and cons of the three functional BRT systems in South Africa were stated and a way forward for EMA was recommended. Lastly, an assessment of the proposed BRT system in EMA was conducted on the existing Phase 1 and the remaining three phases. The review conducted was based on route inspection, access to property, factors considered in the selection of a BRT system, demand analyses of the routes and the evaluation of Johannesburg, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth BRT systems. Guidelines were also provided for the remaining proposed BRT routes which could be adopted by the eThekwini Transport Authority (ETA) in order to enhance a better performance in EMA over the three functional BRT systems in South Africa using the aforementioned criteria.

The study focuses mainly on the effectiveness of the rehabilitation programmes offered to male juveniles at Westville prison. The study also tries to uncover how the rehabilitation programmes improve the quality of life of the juvenile offenders and how it prepares them for reintegration into the community. A combination of sociological theories has been used interchangeably since they are interrelated. The main theory is symbolic interactionism, including the views of G.H. Mead (1934), W.I.Thomas (1923) and H.S. Becker (1963). Other theories used were differential association by Sutherland (1947); anomie by Merton (1956); subculture by Cohen (1956) and the labeling theory of Schur (1971). Data from prison officials were collected by means of questionnaires and an interview schedule was administered to the juveniles. The results of the findings indicate that rehabilitation programmes offered to male juveniles are effective. The reason being that the number of second time offenders is very small compared to the number of first time offenders. Only six respondents out of 50 were found to be second time offenders. The mam conclusion of the study relates to the effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes. The recommendations of the study focus on communication between prison staff and external agencies.<br>Thesis (M.A.)-University of Durban-Westville, 1999.

This study focuses on globalisation and its impact on the governance of local authorities, with particular reference to the eThekwini Municipality. The research is topical and relevant to the times. Currently, local government and administration in South Africa is undergoing restructuring and transformation in accordance with key national policies and recent legislative mandates. The restructuring of local government has been driven by the process of democratization and re-distribution. This drive has changed local government boundaries, introduced new structures and systems and re-orientated planning and the general environment. This phase in the transformation represents a fresh and final opportunity for local government to transform itself in a manner that will achieve sustainable and a developmental local government that will improve the quality of life of all South Africans economically, politically, socially, culturally and technologically. New conceptual frameworks, and new ways of dealing with problems and challenges have been introduced and the process of giving effect to the changes is bound to continue for some time into the foreseeable future. As South Africa confronts critical domestic challenges of economic growth and job creation, meeting basic needs, alleviating poverty, developing its people and ensuring a safe and secure environment, it continues to deliberate in international forums such as Southern African Development Community (SADC) and New Partnership on Africa's Development (NEPAD), and perform other global responsibilities. Globalisation is commonly portrayed as a multi-faceted phenomenon with trends in trade, technology, international capital movements and multi-national organizations all moving towards the creation of a new autonomous and homogenous global economic realm. In simple terms it demands that trends being developed by Local xvm Government keep abreast of what is happening in other countries throughout the World. Globalisation has brought into sharp focus the rapidly evolving functions of "regionalisation" in the World. The ease with which goods, services and finances are sourced has impacted on how the world operates. On a negative level, it has resulted in growing inequalities and polarization between more localities and regions that are able to engage and compete within the global economy and those who are unable to. Within the current political framework in South Africa's core principles, basic systems, and procedures are designed to encourage and facilitate community participation and strengthen local governance, management and development. This would allow for progressive steps towards social and economic upliftment of communities as envisaged in the White Paper on Local Government. Good governance and democracy are essential to ensure maximum participation and ownership of the decision making process at the local level. Moreover, key pillars of the strategy at the eThekwini Municipality are meeting basic needs, strengthening the economy and building skills and improving technology. In local government the emergence of a uniquely South African organization and leadership culture that recognizes the values and skills inherent in our cultural diversity is fundamental in sustaining the trends of globalisation. This holistic differences in approach should be viewed as a unique competitive advantage that improves the quality of decisionmaking. This study recognizes that South Africa needs to participate positively within the global community as a key player while addressing a multitude of domestic challenges. The study was conceptualized within a framework of globalisation and its fit into the paradigm of local governance. It also focuses on the traditional, innovative and global xix approaches to public administration and focuses on the impact and relevance to globalisation. The positive and negative implications of globalisation are highlighted and recommendations are made on the basis that South Africa and more particularly the eThekwini Municipality cannot ignore globalisation. Globalisation is here to stay and South Africa must plat its role within the global context. The study attempts to bridge the gap between theory and practice of globalisation. As South Africa deliberates within the African Union and embarks on the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) while confronting domestic challenges, it also has to perform global responsibilities. The research instruments and techniques used in this study consisted of theoretical search, empirical survey and data interpretation. The empirical survey captures the understanding of globalisation, responses within the core themes of each hypotheses, overall objectives and relationship between core themes. Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were used. The study proposes and makes valuable recommendations for globalisation and its impact on the governance of local authorities. For the eThekwini Municipality to conform to these domestic and global trends the following recommendations should be considered: • Embrace globalisation as a fact and view it as a challenge for Africa. • Develop effective public-private partnerships, which will sustain the impact of local governance. • Enhance information technology, knowledge, skills and competencies. • Develop regional agreements for local and global cities. • Provide training to improve capacities to contribute towards organizational effectiveness. • To make the global economy more sustainable and inclusive in the developing countries. xx • Develop local leadership to meet the globalisation challenge. • Institute structural and institutional adjustment for developmental local government. • The eThekwini Municipality must emulate best practices of global cities. • Establish globalisation committee to keep abreast of the globalisation issues. • Use cultural diversity to improve the quality of decision-making. • Although the eThekwini has a generally well-developed infrastructural system, it is largely concentrated within the urban core and its principal development corridors. This system needs to be extended, maintained and upgraded if the core and periphery areas of eThekwini are to become integrated, support internationally competitive partners and attract new alliances. • Twinning of cities is an important measure to monitor global trends and alliances. • Further research and studies into the trends and influences of globalisation as applied with local authorities needs to be undertaken.<br>Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2004.

This study investigated the relationship between resilience and coping in a sample of 120 unemployed women living in the Ethekwini region. Participants completed two instruments: the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) (Connor & Davidson, 2003) and Ways of Coping (WCQ) (Lazarus & Folkman, 1985) scale as well as a short demographic questionnaire. Results indicated high resilience as well as coping levels in this sample of unemployed women. Two of the resilience factors, trusting instincts and positiveness, were positively related to coping strategies like distancing, problem-solving and positive reappraisal. The latter subscale contains elements of spirituality and religiosity. In addition, most of the unemployed women reported being highly religious. The results confirm that specific factors of resilience and certain coping methods, as well as the role of religion, need to be considered when designing interventions for unemployed women.<br>Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2011.

Introduction: South Africa is currently experiencing one of the most severe AIDS epidemics in the world with South Africa‘s public sector under great stress and under-resourced whilst there exists a vibrant private healthcare sector. Private healthcare sector doctors have a pivotal role to play in the management of HIV and AIDS infection. However not much is known about the extent of private healthcare sector doctor involvement in the management of HIV and AIDS patients. In addition these doctors need to have an accurate knowledge of the management of the infection, and a positive attitude towards the treatment of persons with HIV and AIDS. With the availability of antiretroviral drugs only since around 1996, many of the doctors who were trained prior to 1996 would not have received any formal training in the management of HIV and AIDS patients, further it is very important that these doctors constantly update their knowledge and obtain information in order to practise high-quality medicine. Although private sector doctors are the backbone of treatment service in many countries, caring for patients with HIV brings a whole new set of challenges and difficulties. The few studies done on the quality of care of HIV patients, in the private sector in developing countries, have highlighted some problems with management thus it becomes important to ascertain these doctors‘ training needs together with where these doctors source information on HIV/AIDS to stay updated. In South Africa two thirds of the doctors work in the private sector. To address some of the resource and personnel shortages facing the public sector in South Africa, partnerships between the public and private sectors are slowly being forged. However, little is known about the willingness on the part of private sector doctors in the eThekwini Metro of KwaZulu-Natal, to manage public sector HIV and AIDS patients. Though many studies have been undertaken on HIV/AIDS, fewer have been done in the private sector in terms of the management of this disease which includes doctors‘ adherence monitoring practices, their training needs and sources of information and their willingness to manage public sector patients. A study was therefore undertaken to assess the involvement of private sector doctors in the management of HIV, their training needs and sources of HIV information, the quality of HIV clinical management that they provided, together with their strategies for improving adherence in patients. Further the study assessed factors that affect adherence in patients attending private healthcare, and finally investigated whether private sector doctors are willing to manage public sector HIV infected patients. A literature review of the barriers that prevent doctors from managing HIV/AIDS patients was also undertaken. Method: A descriptive cross sectional study was undertaken using structured self reported questionnaires. All private sector doctors practising in the eThekwini Metro were included in the study. The study was divided into different phases. After exclusions a valid sample of 931 participants was obtained in Phase 1. However only 235 of these doctors indicated that they managed HIV infected patients, of which only 190 consented to be part of Phase 2 of the study. In Phase 2 the questionnaires were administered by trained field workers to the doctors after confirming doctors‘ consent. The questionnaires were thereafter collected, the data captured and analysed using SP55 version 15. Results: Although 235 (71.6%) doctors managed HIV and AIDS patients, 93 (28.4%) doctors did not, and of the latter 48 (51.61%) had not encountered HIV and AIDS patients, twenty five (26.88%) referred such patients to specialists, six (6.45%) cited cost factors as reasons for not treating such patients, whilst twelve (12.90%) doctors, though they indicated that there were other reasons for not managing HIV infected patients, did not specify their reasons. Two doctors (2.15%) indicated that due to inadequate knowledge they did not manage HIV and AIDS patients. Significantly younger (recently qualified) doctors rather than older (qualified for more years) doctors treated HIV/AIDS patients (p<0.001). Most doctors (76.3%) expressed a need for more training/knowledge on the management of HIV patients. Eighty five doctors (54.5%) always measured the CD4 count and viral load levels at diagnosis. Both CD4 counts and viral load were always used by 76 doctors (61.8%) to initiate therapy. Of the doctors 134 (78.5%) initiated therapy at CD4 count < 200cells/mm3. The majority of doctors prescribed triple therapy regimens using the 2 NRTI +1 NNRTI combination. Doctors who used CD4 counts tended to also use viral load (VL) to assess effectiveness and change therapy (p<0.001). At initiation of treatment 68.5% of the doctors saw their patients monthly and 64.3% saw them 3-6 monthly when stable. The majority of the doctors (92.4%) obtained information on HIV and AIDS from journals. Continuing Medical Education (CME), textbooks, pharmaceutical representatives, workshops, colleagues and conferences were identified as other sources of information, while only 35.7% of doctors were found to use the internet for information. GPs and specialists differed significantly with regard to their reliance on colleagues (52.9% versus 72.7%; p < 0.05) and conferences (48.6% versus 78.8%; p < 0.05) as sources of HIV information. Of the respondents, 78.9% indicated that they monitor for adherence. Comparison of GPs and specialists found that 82.6% of the GPs monitor for adherence compared to 63.6% of the specialists. (p=0.016). Doctors used several approaches with 60.6% reporting the use of patient self reports and 18.3% pill counts. Doctors (68.7%) indicated that their adherence monitoring is reliable, whilst 19.7% stated they did not test the reliability of their monitoring tool. The most common strategy used to improve adherence of their patients was by counseling. Other strategies included alarm clocks, SMS, telephoning the patient, encouraging family support and the use of medical aid programmes. One hundred and thirty three (77.8%) doctors were willing to manage public sector HIV and AIDS patients, with 105 (78.9%) reporting adequate knowledge, 99 (74.4%) adequate time, and 83 (62.4%) adequate infrastructure. Of the 38 (22.2%) that were unwilling to manage these patients, more than 80% cited a lack of time, knowledge and infrastructure to manage them. Another reason cited by five doctors (3.8%) who were unwilling was the distance from public sector facilities. Of the 33 specialist doctors, 14 (42.4%) indicated that they would not be willing to manage public sector HIV and AIDS patients, compared with only 24 (17.4%) of the 138 GPs (p < 0.01). There was no statistical difference between adherence to treatment and demographics of the respondent patient such as age, gender and marital status. In this study 89.1% of patients were classified as non-adherent and reasons for non-adherence included difficulty in swallowing medicines (67.3%) (p = 0.01); side effects (61.8%) (p = 0.03); forgetting to take medication (58.2%) (p = 0.003); and not wanting to reveal their HIV status (41.8%) (p = 0.03). Common side effects experienced were nausea, dizziness, insomnia, tiredness or weakness. Reasons for taking their medicines included that tablets would save their lives (83.6%); they understood how to take the medication (81.8%); tablets would help them feel better (80.0%); and that they were educated about their illness (78.2%). All participants that were on a regimen that comprised protease inhibitors and two NRTIs were found to be non-adherent. Conclusion: All doctors in the private healthcare sector were not involved in the management of HIV/AIDS patients. Doctors indicated that they required more training in the management of HIV/AIDS patients. However private sector doctors in the eThekwini Metro do obtain information on HIV from reliable sources in order to have up-to-date knowledge on the management of HIV-infected patients, with the majority of private sector doctors being compliant with the current guidelines, hence maintaining an acceptable quality of clinical health care. These doctors do monitor for adherence and employ strategies to improve adherence in their patients who do have problems adhering to their treatment due to various factors. Many private sector doctors are willing to manage public sector HIV and AIDS patients in the eThekwini Metro, potentially removing some of the current burden on the public health sector.<br>Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2010.

International mass sports gatherings like the FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) World Cup Soccer and Olympics can cause great challenges to local healthcare systems and emergency medical services. History has shown that disasters do occur during these events, whether on a small or large scale. Disaster Management Practitioners from the public health perspective widely recognize that poor planning and a range of other underlying factors, create conditions of vulnerability. These result in insufficient capacity or measures to reduce hazards’ potentially negative consequences. The eThekwini District has to be prepared in the event of a mass disaster. Pre-empting and planning for disasters will lead to the safety and security of our citizens. The aim of this study was to undertake a baseline survey (in a total number of eleven public sector hospitals) to assess the state of hospital readiness, medical preparedness, and emergency care in preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Soccer in the eThekwini District. A general assessment tool in the form of a standard questionnaire, and a walkthrough visit with a checklist, was used to collect data. There is no previous study conducted at the eThekwini District to assess requirements for an international event in terms of a mass disaster. South Africa is a developing country, and this was the first time any developing country had hosted a sporting event on such a large magnitude thus there are no international standards on sports disaster management by any other developing countries to generalise to eThekwini District. The current disaster management operational plan that is being used for the World Cup is based on a United Kingdom integrated management philosophy tool. The study herein adopted a public health approach and incorporates the Yokohama Strategy within its tool along with the use of HMIMMS and MIMMS in the assessment of the clinical criteria. The perceived minimum requirements suggested by the hospitals and a Provincial Task Team, from the Provincial Health Disaster Management office, was used as a guideline. The study showed that although disaster plans and policies are in situ, there still exists a need for resources to be directed toward skills training, attraction and retention of healthcare professionals, revitalisation of emergency and theatre areas and the commissioning of more isolation units. The results of the study would enable the District Office to note any shortcomings and lack of resources in public sector hospitals. The study outcome would be important for the implementation of any strategic planning to aid the hospitals in preparation for mass disasters that may occur during the 2010 FIFA World Cup Soccer.<br>Thesis (M.Med.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2010.

This research sought to examines how Integrated Development Planning has been used as an approach for improving infrastructure service delivery in historically disadvantaged communities. It examines the extent to which integrated development planning has been used to facilitate infrastructure provision in KwaNyuswa. It identifies key development challenges that are currently faced by the eThekwini Municipality in its attempts to accelerate infrastructure service delivery in KwaNyuswa. Both secondary and primary sources of data were used to source information. Key experts and community members were interviewed to supplement data from secondary sources. It was found that KwaNyuswa has a large proportion of Durban Metro Open Space, riverines and steep divided topography which constraint infrastructure provision in the area. Nevertheless, EThekwini Municipality has to a large extent managed to provide affordable services such as water and electricity in KwaNyuswa. Despite this success, roads and transportation networks have not been upgraded especially in sub-settlements called “Izigodi” and no Reconstruction and Development Programme Houses have been constructed since 1994. The study has identified a rural planning scheme, the affordable service delivery strategy, human capital development programme and nodal development strategies as solutions to enhance infrastructure provision in KwaNyuswa. Lessons learnt were identified jointly with recommendations to make Integrated Development Planning work in KwaNyuswa.<br>M.T.R.P. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 2013.

In March 1999 the former Durban Metropolitan Council embarked on several pilot studies to test the applicability of some early thinking around a new Land Use Management System with the aim of casting a single and uniform approach to managing and controlling the development of land and buildings within the municipal area. The studies were necessary as post 1994 the municipality and many other municipalities across the Province had inherited fragmented, unequal and incoherent planning systems, which were developed under apartheid. One of such pilot areas is Cliffdale where new land use management approaches were applied to a semi-rural area through the adoption of a new Land Use Scheme. The aim of this dissertation is to evaluate these approaches that were applied to the Cliffdale Land Use Scheme, given that it is 5 years old and new frameworks, ideas and practices have been developed over this period. At the time of compiling the pilot scheme, there were also limited datasets and information available to inform the developing of the new approaches. Subsequent to this pilot study, a similar Provincial wide initiative was launched which resulted in the preparation of a Land Use Management System Manual in 2001. The aim of the manual is to guide municipalities towards applying a uniform approach to land use management and the preparation of municipal Land Use Schemes. The Manual was further reviewed in 2004. This dissertation also looks at the success of the Cliffdale Land Use Scheme in comparison to the existing Town Planning Scheme model and the new Provincial Land Use Management System. In order to achieve this, interviews were conducted with key people who have experience in the new land use management system. Theoretical research was undertaken on other case studies, precedents and new data sets and information. Findings indicated that the new land use management approaches are an improvement to the current Town Planning Scheme model. The approaches however can be further improved through the availability of new datasets, information and concepts that have emerged from other case studies and precedents.<br>Thesis (M.T.R.P.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2005.

Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, 2017.<br>This study was premised on the knowledge that the democratic government of South Africa has availed a lot of funding for SMMEs to start or develop their ventures. This is because it is an accepted fact that this sector has the ability to grow the country’s economy. The study then aimed to ascertain the extent to which the competence of Small, Medium and Micro Entrepreneurs (SMMEs) can impact sustainable economic development in eThekwini Municipal Area of South Africa. The study scrutinized the ability of the SMME managers and operators on how they can utilize available resources effectively and efficiently to ensure that their enterprises contribute to sustainable economic growth. Also, the factors that militate the growth and performances of SMMEs in eThekwini Municipal Area were examined. The basis through which this study was undertaken was that of human behaviour of SMME managers, operators and business owners as to how they can contribute to the economic development and survive in the competitive market. Using simple random sampling, data was collected from various SMMEs in the eThekwini Municipal Area. A total of 229 entrepreneurs responded to the questionnaire, which made the sample of the study. This data was captured and analyzed on SPSS (version 24) and yielded both descriptive and inferential statistics. The key findings of the study were that the entrepreneurs alluded to the fact that knowledge, skills, value judgments, behavioural characteristics and social networks were all very important in establishing and running a successful business. A challenge that emerged from the respondents was that they were not well equipped to identify business opportunities. They were, however, taking good care of their environments and were using their businesses to employ community members. Some of them did contribute to community development programmes. The main recommendation that is made here is that potential entrepreneurs must be assisted with tools on how to identify business opportunities. This could also be an avenue for further research.<br>M

The study did a systemic analysis of eThekwini Municipality's design for effectiveness looking at community participation in local governance. The study was conducted by using Participatory Action Research methodology. The researcherwas able to determine emergent themes. The findings revealed that firstly, people view the Municipality's system of governance as unresponsive. This is because of lack of effective mechanisms of communication between the councillors, officials and the communities. Moreover, there is lack of delivery of services to the community, resulting in people feeling that their needs are not being addressed; therefore there being no need to participate. Secondly, there is also a general feeling that local government does not consult with the people when taking decisions on crucial matters. Thirdly, there is uncertainty about whether community inputs have any influence on decision-making. This concern was expressed in a variety of ways, including the feeling that their input did not matter because the essential decision 'appears' to have already been made before the participation process commencesor ends. Fourthly, there is overwhelming evidence that there is a direct correlation between participation levels and unhappiness and dissatisfaction around the levels of service delivery of the municipality. Lastly people at the grassroots level do not have knowledge on how government structures function. This makes it difficult for them to have meaningful and effective means of participation. All the undesirable effects outlined above, provide a sound and compelling basis on justification for a Community Participation Policy design. While the legislation prescribing citizen and community abounds, local government authorities have remained indifferent; or they have not been visible in pursuing methods and mechanisms that foster citizen participation in project management and decision making processes. As a result of this study, the Council has made the amendment of Section 12 of the Municipal Structures Act to ensure that eThekwini Municipality becomes a ward participatory type of municipality. Also, community participation policy has been developed to change the present situation or context that invited the problem on ineffective participation. The policy aims at changing mindsets for municipal officials so that they take the issue of involving communities more seriously.<br>Thesis (M.Com.)-University of Kwazulu Natal, 2005.

This thesis set out to examine the application of the supporter paradigm in the incremental housing process in South Africa, and the way support for housing consolidation has been orchestrated in practice. It aimed to determine the forms of housing support that constitute preconditions of housing consolidation in the South African low income housing context. The supporter paradigm upon which post-apartheid housing policy is based takes its cue from the proponents of self-help housing, and the institutions that have entrenched it internationally. It outlines the housing support actions that would enable poor households to achieve housing adequacy incrementally . In South Africa, such households would constitute housing subsidy beneficiaries, seeking to achieve housing 'depth' through the process of housing consolidation, where the national subsidy programme would primarily only have delivered housing 'width' , or housing starts. Contrary to the expectations of the policy, the pace of housing consolidation has been slow, and the standard of the resultant housing poor. The thesis ' point of departure is that households which have not improved their dwellings, or whose improvement efforts have only yielded temporary housing, continue to experience housing inadequacy, despite subsidy support. This outcome contradicts the policy 's goal of enabling households to reach housing adequacy. That subsidy support is but one of a number of supports needed to enable housing consolidation is acknowledged by current policy. This study critiques the way support has been lent to households in consolidating situations conceptually and empirically. Conceptually, the study analyses the international and South African policy discourse around the support approach to housing delivery, as well as looks at some precedents in housing support practice internationally for useful lessons. Empirically, the study makes use of qualitative and quantitative research instruments to examine and analyse the housing support experience in three different types of incremental housing projects, located in eThekwini municipality, in the KwaZulu Natal Province of South Africa . The housing support findings are analysed within the context of what both the housing policy and the study 's key informants consider to be a holistic packaging of housing support, that should be attendant to any incremental housing project. On the basis of the study's findings, housing support practice is critiqued on two levels. At policy level, the study reveals that the foundation of South African housing policy in a neoliberal context, in the absence of support targeted at improving the incomes of the mainly very poor beneficiaries, sets them up for failure in their housing improvement efforts. At the implementation level, the study identifies three key areas of weakness. Firstly, there is absence of strategic direction at the National level, resulting in the treatment of housing support as an optional function by the housing implementation levels. Secondly, most housing authorities experience difficulty in understanding what housing support entails, because of its multifaceted nature and lack of specificity . Consequently, the support attendant to incremental housing projects is ad hoc and intermittent in nature, and is delivered on the basis of how the particular authorities or project staff understand housing support. As a result, in any given project, housing support is rarely comprehensively packaged. It is also largely an unfunded mandate. Thirdly, at project level, the thesis establishes that many of the problems that confront consolidating households can be attributed to projects that are poorly planned from the outset, and that support in this regard lies in the development of capacity at municipal level, to plan projects that have the potential to be consolidated in the first instance. As its main contribution, the thesis develops a multidimensional, comprehensive framework for packaging housing support. One dimension specifies upfront, the support elements considered important in the pre- and post-subsidy phases of the project, as well as in the project implementation phase. The exact form these would take in any project would be informed by the project and beneficiary characteristics. The second dimension packages the institutional roles for housing support, thereby removing the institutional ambivalence towards the housing support function, and specifying the institutional and role changes needed to enable housing support to occur. The third dimension packages support according to project type, indicating which forms of support apply to all types of projects, and which to specific modes of delivery in the South African context. The study concludes that while current housing policy is clear on the need to support households to meet consolidation goals, specificity of both process and actions needs to be lent to housing support practice. The multidimensional support package developed by the study is deemed a useful tool in providing such specificity, and clarifying how support for housing consolidation in South Africa should be set up in both policy and practice.<br>Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2008.

Submitted in fulfillment of the academic requirements for the degree of Master of Technology in Construction Management, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2015.<br>On-time completion and conformity with assigned cost of every project are the most important factors in the success of project plans. Cost overruns and time overrun (delays) have been critical problems of many projects around the world in general and in South Africa in particular. The main objectives of this research are to assess the dominant causes of cost and time overruns, identifying possible and practical measures that can minimize overruns in office building construction projects around eThekwini Municipal area of Kwazulu-Natal. These objectives are achieved through the implementation of the research methodologies that are mainly literature review and questionnaire survey conducted to identify and evaluate the significant factors contributing to delay and cost overruns within the projects of interest. A review of literature identified eighty-five variables for delay, grouped in nine major categories and nine variables for cost overruns ranked in their order of importance in three sets based on the responses from the professionals working for the client, consultants and contractors. The agreement among the sets of rankings for delay and cost overruns has also been tested using statistical methods. The result indicates that there is strong agreement on ranking the importance of the individual variables of delay and cost overruns between parties. From each of the three sets of rankings, the twenty most important variables of delay and the three most important variables of cost overrun are identified as critical. Based on overall results, the top five most important causes are contractor’s cash flow problems, delay in progress payments by the client, poor site supervision and management by contractor, inefficient quality control by the contractor during construction leading to rework due to errors, and contractor’s difficulties in financing the project. Out of the 20 most important delay causing variables, three are found to be common between all parties. These are delay in progress payments by the client, delay in delivery and late ordering of material, and insufficient skill of labour. Furthermore, the study reveals that all stakeholders of construction parties are deeply involved in contributing to the causes of the problems. Thus, in order to eliminate or minimize cost and time extension of office construction projects in the eThekwini Municipal area, a joint effort based on teamwork is essential through effective project planning, controlling and monitoring which boils down to putting in place best practice construction project management.

Land use management and development control play an important role in achieving integration and sustainability in developing societies such as South Africa today. Town Planning Schemes are generally used as a tool for achieving this by making provision for land uses that are freely permitted, permitted by special consent or prohibited, thereby ensuring that incompatible land uses are not allowed. However, these town planning schemes are interpreted by different officials, with different levels of planning experience and qualification, as well as different opinions in the interpretation, which can result in inconsistency in decision-making and subsequent development patterns. The aim of this dissertation is therefore to investigate a range of special consent applications, the decision-making process applied to them and the applicability of any conditions attached thereto. The spatial focus of this dissertation is the South Municipal Planning Region of the Ethekwini Municipality which was established during the 2000 demarcation process. Inherent is this amalgamation is the fact that there are now thirty eight different town planning schemes in the Municipal area, with nine of them found in the South Municipal Planning Region.<br>Thesis (M.T.R.P.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2008.

The research study explored the responsiveness of children's homes to the admission of children with physical and sensory disabilities. The research study was undertaken in the Ethekwini Municipality. Access to appropriate alternate care is enshrined in the Constitution of the country and the provision of residential care is one option for children who are found in need of care. The objectives of the research study were to identify gaps in the provision of residential services for children with disabilities and to explore what challenges are faced by children's homes in admitting children with physical and sensory disabilities. The theoretical framework that was used to guide the study was ecosytems theory. The ecosystems approach provided an understanding of the impact of barriers to inclusion. It also provided an understanding on the reciprocity that exists between children's homes and other systems. A qualitative research approach was used. A sample of ten children's homes was selected in the Ethekwini region, using the non-probability sampling technique. Data was collected using in-depth interviews, observation and a perusal of records. In-depth interviews were conducted with the assistance of an interview guide. The data was recorded and analysed according to common themes and trends. The results of the research study show that children's homes do not have the capacity to respond to the needs of children with disabilities. All the children's homes faced similar challenges, in the form of funding, human resources, building structures and access to resources that hinder the admission of children with physical and sensory disabilities to their facility. One of the major findings was that children with disabilities made up less than one percent of the total population of children in the children's homes. None of the children's home had developed inclusive admission policies for children with physical and sensory disabilities. There was a clear indication that the government would need to strengthen existing residential care facilities to make them more inclusive in nature.<br>Thesis (LL.M.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2008.

This study explores the policy implications of Real estate Investment Trusts on urban restructuring and attempts to uncover if monitoring and evaluating mechanisms are needed. This issue is relevant to South Africa for competing globally and domestically for real estate investment. Furthermore it is relevant to South Africa given the potential impact of unregulated property development and the implications for the poor. The study also investigates the implications of REIT investing over all types of property types and implications for spatial policy proposals<br>Thesis (M.Dev.Studies)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2009

Introduction: Garment work is repetitive and detailed and requires constant use of the hands. It is no surprise that garment workers are at high risk for developing repetitive strain injuries (RSI’s) (MFL Occupational Health Centre, 1999). Work-related upper limb disorders, popularly known as RSI’s, affect over 370,000 people in Great Britain with 86,000 new cases recorded in 2010. This costs employers almost £300 million in lost working time, sick pay and administration (The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, 2007). There is however no statistics documented on RSI’s among garment workers found for South Africa. Aim: To determine the prevalence of signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and de Quervains tenosynovitis. Method: A study using quantitative data was used. A validated questionnaire consisting of open-ended and closed questions was utilized. Data was collected from two hundred subjects of varying age, gender and ethnic group. Information on signs and symptoms and possible risk factors of RSI’s were obtained. The visual analogue scale was used to assess pain, a goniometer to measure active range of movement, the Phalens test, Reverse Phalens test and Finkelsteins test was used to assess the signs and symptoms of the two occupational repetitive strain disorders. Data analysis: All data was captured and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 15). Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, proportions, median, mode and interquartile range was used to summarize the data. Pearson’s Chi Square tests and Fishers Exact tests were used to test for association between two categorical variables. Independent Samples t-tests were used for the difference in age distribution between participants that presented with carpal tunnel syndrome and de Quervains tenosynovitis and of those who did not present with them. The level of significance was set at 0.05. Bar graphs, tables and pie charts were used to depict the results. Results/Discussion: The results of this study indicated that 59% of participants presented with signs and symptoms of de Quervains tenosynovitis and 63% of participants presented with signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome and de Quervains tenosynovitis was 42% and 43% respectively among garment workers in the eThekwini district. In addition, 100% of participants stated that they work under the following conditions, applying weight through the arms, repeated movement, work with their arms in unsupported positions, fast hand movements and holding or grasping for more than 2 hours continuously per day. Seventy two and a half percent of participants stated that their work entailed using vibratory tools for prolonged hours. Pearson’s Chi Square tests showed no association of use of vibratory tools to de Quervains tenosynovitis (P=0.666) or to carpal tunnel syndrome. This is inconsistent with the findings of the study completed by Leclerc et al. (1998) who stated that different dimensions of exposure to physical workload are widely recognised as risk factors. These risk factors include rapid hand motions, repetitive bending and twisting of the hands and the wrist, fast work pace, repetitive grasping with the fingers, mechanical stress at the base of the palm and the palm and the use of vibratory tools (Leclerc et al. 1998). Conclusion: This study has identified the prevalence of signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and de Quervains tenosynovitis among garment workers. It has also shown that a significant percentage of garment workers presented with symptoms of burning, tingling, itching and numbness in their hands as well as feelings of swollen and ‘useless’ hands. A significant number presented with functional limitations to certain activities of daily living suggestive of the presence of carpal tunnel syndrome. De Quervains tenosynovitis was indicated when a significant number of participants presented with pain, tenderness or swelling over the radial aspect of the wrist as well as functional limitations to certain activities of daily living.<br>Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, 2012.