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

Recent Submissions

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.
South Africas Non-Aligned Stance on the Russia-Ukraine War: Implications on South Africas Economic Trade Relations
(E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, 2024) Ntlailane, Thoriso; Hofisi, Costa; 30832128
The foreign policy of non-alignment adopted by various states during the Russia-Ukraine war has been interpreted differently in the landscape of global politics. One perspective views non-alignment as tacit support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, while the other sees it as a way for countries to protect their national interests. The study explored the non-alignment stance of the South African government on the Russia-Ukraine war and its effect on the economy of the state. It observed the trade relations that South Africa has with states that condemned the acts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Not only that but also, the trade relations of South Africa with states that used the non-alignment foreign policy in the Russia-Ukraine war. The response of South Africa’s markets to the non-alignment stance on the Russia-Ukraine war was also examined. The paper made use of the qualitative research method and secondary data. Furthermore, the study employed document analysis as a research technique. The study findings show that the non-alignment stance of South Africa had minimal and short-term implications for the country. However, the position of non-alignment by the South African government has been perceived to be controversial and supporting the actions of Russia in the war. The paper concluded that South Africa’s stance has minimal effect on the state’s economy. The study contributes to knowledge by demonstrating the implications of South Africa’s Non-Aligned Stance On The Russia-Ukraine War on South Africa’s Economic Trade Relations.
Exploring personality traits, coping strategies, and 5-year change in blood pressure in young adults: the african-predict study
(Health Services Research and Managerial Epidemiology, 2024) Botha, K; Papenfus, A; Mels, C; Cockeran, M; 10067973
This sub-study of the African Prospective Study on the Early Detection and Identification of Cardiovascular Disease and Hypertension (African-PREDICT) explored possible early psychological predictors of change in blood pressure. In a sample of normotensive at baseline black and white South Africans (n=105; mean age at baseline 24.93), this study investigated the relationship between personality traits, coping strategies, and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure measured at baseline and 5-year follow-up. Another aim was to investigate a possible mediating effect of coping strategies on the relationship between personality traits and change in blood pressure. Extraversion, agreeableness, openness, and problem-solving skills were identified as possible protective factors against cardiovascular risk, confirming previous research in this regard. However, the effect of these was different for gender and ethnic subgroups. Preconditions for a possible mediation role for coping in the relationship between personality and change in blood pressure were not met. Future research should further explore gender and ethnic differences in the relationship between personality, coping, and cardiovascular health.