DSpace Repository

Welcome to the NWU Repository, the open access Institutional Repository of the North-West University (NWU-IR). This is a digital archive that collects, preserves and distributes research material created by members of NWU. The aim of the NWU-IR is to increase the visibility, availability and impact of the research output of the North-West University through Open Access, search engine indexing and harvesting by several initiatives.

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Now showing 1 - 5 of 18

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Evaluating the challenges and opportunities for economic diversification in a just energy transition in South African municipalities: A case of Emalahleni local municipality
(North-West University, 2025) Twalo, N.L.; Meyer, TC; Cilliers, DP
This study investigated the potential challenges and opportunities related to implementing economic diversification in a Just Energy Transition, to mitigate the impact of the closure of coal mines and coal power stations as a result of the Just Energy Transition. The challenges and opportunities with regard to economic diversification in a Just Energy Transition were identified and characterised through a literature review. These were evaluated through a qualitative case study of the Emalahleni Local Municipality, based on real-world observations from key stakeholders. Stakeholders from the different spheres of government with various roles in the implementation of the Just Energy Transition were interviewed, based on questions about challenges and opportunities in economic diversification in the Just Energy Transition. The findings highlighted the need for a coordinated effort across government spheres, private-sector engagement, infrastructure investment, policy coherence reform and strategic funding mechanisms to ensure a sustainable and equitable transition. It further found that a successful Just Energy Transition requires increased capacity-building at the municipal level and substantial investment in infrastructure development. In conclusion, better policy coordination, infrastructure development, private-sector involvement, financial accessibility and global collaboration are required to support Emalahleni’s transition to a more diverse and sustainable economy. The research findings can be generalised beyond the immediate case study to other municipalities with a similar context, based on the theories accepted and rejected. Successful economic diversification in a Just Energy Transition may, therefore, be possible in other municipalities with medium-sized towns reliant on coal mining and energy generation, provided that a comprehensive approach that integrates intergovernmental and private-sector collaboration, robust policy and regulatory frameworks, infrastructure investment and adequate financial resources is adopted.
Benchmarking exoplanet transit depths with the SAAO Lesedi telescope
(North-West University, 2025) Hug, R; Letarte, B; Worters, HL
The detection and characterisation of exoplanets through transit photometry is a cornerstone of modern astrophysics, enabling insights into planetary sizes, orbits, and host star properties. While space-based missions such as the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and the Kepler Space Telescope have revolutionised the discovery of exoplanet candidates, ground-based telescopes remain crucial for validating these findings and refining their transit parameters with higher cadence and flexibility. This study evaluates the performance of the Lesedi telescope at the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), equipped with the Mookodi instrument, for precise transit photometry of known exoplanets By analysing transit light curves processed with AstroImageJ (AIJ), we assess Lesedi’s capability to detect and characterise transit signals under varying observational conditions. Our results show that Lesedi reliably detects transit depths between 10 and 20 parts per thousand (ppt), with image stacking techniques—particularly a five-frame rolling average—enabling sensitivity improvements down to approximately 1 ppt. These detection thresholds provide a practical framework for target selection, optimising observing strategies, and supporting complementary ground-based follow-up efforts worldwide. Comparative analysis with the smaller NWU Nooitgedacht telescope highlights the critical influence of aperture size on photometric precision and demonstrates Lesedi’s enhanced suitability for shallow transit detection. This work thus establishes Lesedi and Mookodi as valuable tools in the global exoplanet validation network, bridging the gap between space-based discovery and detailed characterisation. This research contributes to the improvement of observational methodologies for exoplanet studies, offering recommendations for exposure timing, target prioritisation, and data processing. It highlights the ongoing significance of ground-based facilities in advancing our understanding of exoplanetary systems, an era dominated by space missions.
Harnessing the internet of things: a review of opportunities and barriers for SMES within emerging economies
(PONTE, 2024) Gorenjena, K.N; Mphale, O; Nojila, O; 24878553
The IoT has emerged as a powerful tool for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to improve performance and productivity. However, many SMEs are hesitant to embrace this transformative technology. Existing research often overlooks the specific factors influencing IoT adoption by SMEs in developing economies. This study aims to bridge this gap by identifying key drivers and barriers affecting IoT adoption among SMEs through a comprehensive literature review. By analysing both the potential benefits and the challenges faced by SMEs, we hope to accelerate the adoption rate of IoT within developing economies. Additionally, the findings can serve as a strategic guideline for SMEs in Botswana, specifically promoting the national adoption of emerging technologies. Thus, by embracing IoT, Botswana's SMEs can become more competitive and contribute to achieving national development goals enshrined in Vision 2036 strategic master plan.
An Assessment of the Rebel Recruitment Strategies used by the M23 Rebel Group in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 2012-2022
(Journal of Nation-building & Policy Studies (JoNPS), 2024) Msimango, Thomas; Rapanyane, Makhura B; 34664793
The recruitment of rebel soldiers is an important feature that determines the survival and ability of a rebel group to be able to conduct its operations. The strategies that a rebel group would use to lure and gain recruits are rather complex, as rebel groups use different strategies. This paper offers an understanding of the different strategies a rebel group in Africa would use to get recruits and the various factors that can affect a rebel group’s recruitment strategy. The methodology employed is a desktop qualitative approach using a case study to understand the problem that has been identified. The recruitment strategies of the M23 in the Democratic Republic of Congo are used as a relevant case study to highlight the rebel group’s recruitment strategies as well as the dynamic factors at play. Policy recommendations are also provided.
Exploring South Africa’s Foreign Policy Objectives in the Decolonisation of the Intergovernmental Organisations: The Case of the United Nations Security Council
(E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (EHASS), 2024) Ntlailane, Thoriso; Hofisi, Costa; 30832128
The United Nations (UN), which is the largest intergovernmental organization (INGO), has a structure mainly focused on global security which is the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). South Africa, which has got Africa's biggest economy and most politically stable, has embodied the principle of decolonisation through the Ubuntu principle. The South African government's key foreign policy objectives seek to advance decolonisation, globally and continentally. These objectives include monitoring international developments, promoting inclusive economic growth and shared prosperity for Africa and its people, building unity, and protecting South Africa's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This study sought to explore South Africa's foreign policy objectives in addressing decolonisation within the UNSC through reform. It employed the exploratory research design in addressing South Africa’s foreign policy objectives towards the reform of the UNSC. Furthermore, the study relied on document analysis. The findings show that the process of decolonisation within the UNSC is occurring at a very slow pace, although significant progress has been made within the African Union regarding the decolonisation agenda. The study emphasises the need for an African permanent member with veto power on the UNSC. This would allow Africa to have a strong voice in protecting its interests. The study's findings can be used by the South African government's Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) to inform its foreign policy formulation.