bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Religion, Security and Politics in Northern Nigeria: A Public Intellectual Reading of Ahmed Yerima’s Pari
Authors: Oloruntoba Albert Olatunde
Published: September 2022

Nigeria boasts of some of the world’s biggest worship centres, as the vast majority of its population attend religious services and pray regularly. However, this nation remains one of the most religiously divisive nations across the world. Critical and literary studies have shown the role of religion in the creation and aggravation of conflict in this nation. This article analyses the ways in which Ahmed Yerima’s play, Pari (2016), examines this burning subject of religious violence in Nigeria, and most specifically, northern Nigeria. Classifying this contemporary playwright as an active public intellectual, this article engages in a close reading of how the play speaks to the controversial subject of religion. The latter part of the article explores Pari’s handling of the subject of conflict resolution, positing that confession, remorse, and forgiveness are important requirements if lasting peace is to be restored after any crisis. These subjects are constructed around the 2014 abduction of the 275 Chibok schoolgirls in northeastern Nigeria by the Islamic terror group, Boko Haram.
Functions and Dysfunctions of Dance as Represented in Paul Chidyausiku’s Broken Roots
Authors: Gonye Jairos
Published: September 2022

In this article I engage with literary representation to argue that although Paul Chidyausiku intended to display the functions of Zimbabwean traditional dance in his re-imagined precolonial Shona society of the novella Broken Roots (1984), he ends up unconsciously suggesting its dysfunctions as well. The paper draws on the functionalist approach and the dysfunctional theory to interpret both the positive and negative connotations surrounding the represented performance contexts. In his recreated early society, Chidyausiku configures dance as performing either decolonial, socialisation, celebratory or gender roles, among others. The article, however, finds Chidyausiku’s overall depiction of the performing society as sometimes ambivalent, thus implying his conflicting conceptualisation of both his African society and the cultural phenomena, including dance, imbedded within it.
Intertextuality in Ethiopian Gǝ’ǝz Literature: The Lexical Relationships between the Hagiography and the Chronicle of King Iyasu I
Authors: Menda Yonas Yilma
Published: September 2022

This paper demonstrates the intertextual aspects of the hagiography and chronicle of an Ethiopian king, aṣe Iyasu I (r.1682–1706). To achieve this, lexical features of both texts are examined. These texts were written in the late seventeenth century. The chronicle of aṣe Iyasu I was written during the king’s reign by his own three chroniclers (Hawarya Krəstos, Zäwäldä Maryam, and Sinoda), while the hagiography of aṣe Iyasu I was written two years after the king’s death by azaž Sinoda. This study is based on textual methods of analysis, in particular content analysis. This method makes it possible to distinguish the lexical relationships between the two texts. For this purpose, the words and phrases that describe the royal courage and sacred personality of the king are identified. Although both the hagiography and the chronicle of aṣe Iyasu I are composed to the same king and address the subject of the same historical milieu, there is no remarkable lexical parallel between the two texts in the area of words and phrases. Unlike the chronicle of aṣe Iyasu I, the hagiography of aṣe Iyasu I uses carefully selected metaphoric words and phrases to describe the king’s bravery and sacred personality. It is thus reasonable to conclude that each author composed their text in a different literary setting rather than that one influenced the other. In other words, the two texts are interconnected but each developed its own textual features as a response to the method and approach of Ethiopian Gǝʿǝz literature.
The Meaning and Function of Jeremiah 22:20–23
Authors: Wessels Wilhelm J
Published: September 2022

Jeremiah 22:20–23 forms part of a cycle of oracles regarding the Judean kings in the period before and during the Babylonian exile. This poetic section addresses a second person female subject without identifying who it may be. The general view is that it is addressed to Jerusalem personified. This article explores the possibility that the female subject is the queen mother, acting in a time between the reigns of King Jehoiakim and King Jehoiachin. On the basis of the available data, whether or not the section refers to the queen mother remains inconclusive. In addition to this question, the meaning and the placement of this poem in the cycle of oracles is discussed in terms of Jeremiah’s ideological views. The poem is both a lament and a judgement announcement due to failed leadership.
Passive, Stative, and Impersonal in Ugaritic: The G-stem Internal Passive Reconsidered
Authors: Notarius Tania
Published: September 2022

In this paper, I analysed around 57 relatively clear cases of the Gpass forms through a painstaking examination of their formal and functional characteristics. The collected data point at the following characteristics of Gpass usage in Ugaritic: the Ugaritic Gpass sentences do not allow agent-phrases; the Agent is demoted from the position of the subject without any syntactic traces. In semantic view, passive sentences regularly imply a concrete Agent or the information about a definite and referential Agent is recoverable from the close context, in contrast to the active impersonal usage. The promoted Patient/Theme is commonly fronted and topicalised in passive sentences. Most Gpass usages are promotional, derived from transitive verbs. I identified approximately eight cases of the impersonal passive. The language of poetry and the language of prose demonstrate a very proportional distribution of the Gpass forms. It is claimed in this paper that Gpass forms are not derived from G stative verbs, at least not on a regular basis, and are not used in middle voice functions. The contrast between the Gpass-stem and the N-stem has syntactic and semantic marking, and has diachronic implications.
Exploring the Underlying Drivers of Transnational Terrorism in Africa’s Sahel Region and Counter-terrorism Policy Interventions
Authors: Zondi Sikhumbuzo
Published: September 2022

Contemporary global affairs are faced with one of the most malicious phenomena in human history that has evolved over time at a pace unrivalled by its present outlook. Terrorism and the war against it have come to define the age in which we live. Threats of terrorist attacks and counterterrorism interventions are now part of our daily lives from Paris to Bamako, from New York to Ouagadougou and from Indonesia to Mauritania. Transnational terrorism is redefining the international security landscape and, in the Sahel, this phenomenon has made its existence felt on the security and stability of the region, owing largely to other pressing factors that the study identifies as preconditions and determinant drivers of terrorism. These preconditions and determinants are categorised into structural drivers, enabling drivers, stimulating drivers and precipitating drivers of terrorism. The paper is a qualitative analysis of existing literature on the drivers and counter-policy interventions on transnational terrorism in the Sahel. The paper begins by unpacking reasons for adopting the underlying drivers approach to terrorism in the Sahel. It then provides a brief background and origins of terror in the Sahel, followed by a detailed examination of the underlying drivers of terrorism in the region. The paper concludes by highlighting policy interventions ushered in by relevant actors in the region.
Library Use and User Satisfaction of Students on the Service Quality of the University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg Campus Main Library
Authors: Kekana Matsobane Daniel , Kheswa Siyanda E.
Published: September 2022

The study aimed to investigate the library use and user satisfaction of postgraduate students in the School of Social Sciences regarding the service quality at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg Campus’s Cecil Renaud Main (CRM) Library. The study investigated postgraduate students’ usage of and satisfaction with the library as an environment for reading, studying and conducting research. The study’s objectives are to determine the level of satisfaction of postgraduate students with the library. The study also sought to examine postgraduate students’ library use. The study employed a quantitative research method, with a survey research design. Its population comprised the postgraduate students in the School of Social Sciences in the College of Humanities at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Pietermaritzburg Campus. The overall response of the postgraduate students indicated that they were satisfied with most of the services. The study found that the majority of the students were satisfied with the information skills needed for studies. However, the study found a few honours, master’s and PhD degree students who were dissatisfied. In terms of the library support for reading, research and studying, the study found high levels of satisfaction. Concerning access to information, the study found that the majority of students were satisfied with the access to information, but there were a few dissatisfied students from honours, master’s and PhD levels. The study found that concerning the library facilities, the majority of the students were satisfied with what was provided for them. A few students were dissatisfied, especially honours and master’s degree students. Regarding the overall quality of the services provided by CRM library, the study found that most of the students were satisfied with the overall quality while the few dissatisfied students were from the honours and master’s programmes.
The Use of Blockchain Technology in Electronic Records Management Systems to Mitigate Corruption in South Africa
Authors: Ajibade Patrick , Mutula Steven M
Published: September 2022

This paper presents blockchain as an integrated tool that can be used in records management to eliminate public corruption. The paper defines blockchain technology as electronic records management in a networked environment to manage public contract transactions. During the Covid-19 pandemic, many “covidpreneurship” companies were awarded contracts at figures inflated by 200%. In response, the state president instituted a joint committee to investigate the problem and requested investigative authorities to make recommendations to prosecute offenders. This paper argues that the government can stop public funds-related corruption by using an integrated records management system built on blockchain infrastructure. The disruptive technology could be a catalyst to stop Covid-19 personal protective equipment (PPE) suppliers from raising prices 100 times above market value, which has led to criminal investigations. A living-lab methodology was adopted, which allows innovative technology to be experimented with in a social research design. Hence, a software algorithm was applied to mine qualitative data from news feeds and their contents, presented as qualitative text transcripts. The paper contends that the blockchain is vital in protecting the integrity of public contracts and their records management and to ensure that no one can alter the contract or inflate prices. The paper recommends that records officers/managers authenticate and conduct transactional records audits. The contract process should be automated using blockchain. It will eliminate favouritism and nepotism in the award of public tender contracts. The technology can also be used to automatically filter out exorbitant quotations above the market values of items.
Procuring and Implementing Management Systems for Electronic Records
Authors: Keakopa Segomotso
Published: September 2022

Many organisations in the East and Southern African Regional Branch of the International Council of Archives region are facing serious records management challenges and are developing and implementing strategies to ensure compliance with approved standards. These strategies include policies and procedures for proper record management. Technology and the growth of computerised systems that generate electronic records have further created pressure for implementing electronic systems to manage documents and records as part of the broader records management programme. Several organisations in the East and Southern African Regional Branch of the International Council of Archives region are undertaking initiatives aimed at procuring such systems. Most of these organisations seem to lack guidance on steps to follow, from building a business case to tendering and final implementation. The problem has been worsened by a mushrooming of vendors marketing their products as records management solutions, creating confusion in organisations that have no professional guidance. The data were collected using a questionnaire in the region and confirmed that there is a lack of professional guidance. A framework to guide the procurement of these systems in organisations must be developed to ensure consistency and standardisation in the approach. The article will contribute by developing a framework or standardised strategy that will be used by national archival institutions and other public organisations in countries in the East and Southern African Regional Branch of the International Council of Archives region when procuring and implementing such systems.
Disrupt or be Disrupted: Archives, Records and Memory in Troubled Times
Authors: Ngoepe Mpho
Published: September 2022

Editorial
Information Literacy Competence and Use of Electronic Information Resources among Undergraduates in University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Authors: Bashorun Musediq Tunji , Bashorun Rafiat Bukola , Olarongbe Shuaib Agboola , Akinbowale Aishat Temitope
Published: September 2022

The study examined information literacy competence and the use of electronic information resources by undergraduates in the Faculty of Law, University of Ilorin, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population of the study was 744 undergraduates. A sample size of 260 undergraduates in the Faculty of Law was randomly selected. Data were collected using a questionnaire designed to elicit a response from respondents and data were analysed using IBM-SPSS version 21.0 with descriptive statistics methods percentages, frequency, and correlation analysis. The findings of the study revealed that there were various electronic information resources (EIRs), such as full-text, image, reference sources, and audio/visual. Similarly, the study revealed that undergraduates had developed various information literacy competences to identify the need, and to locate and access information. The findings revealed that undergraduates in the Faculty of Law have various patterns of usage of EIRs. Moreover, the study revealed a significant relationship between information literacy competence and the use of EIRs. We concluded that undergraduates in the Faculty of Law, University of Ilorin have information literacy competence and their use of EIRs is above average. The study recommended that university management should earmark more funds to the library to buy more reference resources that enhance e-resources utilisation.
Librarians’ Satisfaction with Promotion Practices in University Libraries in South-South, Nigeria
Authors: Ikolo Violet , Adomi Esharenana
Published: September 2022

In universities, promotion is the recognised avenue through which staff move from one level of position to another and has come to be associated with improved staff performance. The study investigates librarians’ satisfaction with promotion practices in university libraries in South-South, Nigeria. The descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. The targeted population is academic librarians from 14 (federal and state) universities in the South-South region in Nigeria, and the total enumeration sampling technique was adopted. A four-point Likert-type questionnaire was designed to elicit responses on librarians’ satisfaction with their promotion in university libraries. Two hundred and forty-three (243) questionnaires were distributed, out of which 180 were returned and found usable, giving a response rate of 76.2%. The results were analysed with percentages and mean and are presented in tables and figures. The study revealed that librarians have a low view of the practice of promotion because of their dissatisfaction with the promotion practice carried out in the university libraries. Factors such as research publications in local and international journals, attendance of conferences and publication in their proceedings, acquisition of additional qualifications, and years of experience at a particular level were shown to be vital before librarians could be promoted from one rank to another. The findings further established that scoring strategies based on library services and activities, evidence of active participation in professional bodies, and attendance of conferences and workshops are important during the assessment for promotion to the professorial cadre. The study recommends active participation in attending conferences, workshops and collaboration with colleagues and publishing in high impact journals as well as quality service delivery to users of the university community.
Safe and Sound: A Framework for the Preservation of Audio-Visual Records to Support Accessibility for the Radio Broadcasting Stations in South Africa
Authors: Ngoasheng Cyril , Marutha Ngoako Solomon
Published: September 2022

Most radio broadcasting organisations struggle to preserve audio-visual records owing to a lack of skills, poor infrastructure and technological obsolescence. This qualitative study proposes a framework for preserving audio-visual records at South African broadcasting radio stations to ensure that records are safe and sound at all times if they are still needed. The study relied on the literature to investigate a framework for preserving audio-visual records to support accessibility for radio broadcasting stations in South Africa. The study discovered, based on the literature and challenges experienced, that the largest section of the radio broadcasting institution has no framework for preserving audio-visual records. This may be owing to a lack of preservation strategies and suitably qualified archivists to provide vision for implementing strategies. These strategies are implemented to preserve audio-visual records, which may result in records being undocumented and irretrievable. The study provides a framework for the systematic preservation of audio-visual records for radio broadcasting institutions by applying different preservation strategies. It is trusted that this framework will provide a benchmark to remedy the situation.
The Use of Information and Communications Technologies by Library Users at the University of the Western Cape
Authors: Ocks Yumnaa Ocks , Salubi Oghenere Gabriel
Published: September 2022

Information and communications technology (ICT) has taken over all spheres of human endeavours. ICT has exerted a profound influence on traditional academic libraries. This study sought to investigate the impact of information and communications technologies (ICTs) on academic library services provision and operations, as well as how ICTs have influenced the use of library information resources by undergraduate and postgraduate students at the University of the Western Cape. The study draws attention to the importance of implementing ICT policies and practices for library operations and practices bounded by the technology acceptance model (TAM). Findings from the study indicate the emergence of ICTs in libraries has drastically changed the dynamics of library operations and services in areas including the online public access catalogue (OPAC), wireless networks, library marketing and online reference services. The findings also revealed that although the use of ICTs in academic libraries enables libraries to offer faster and more efficient services, challenges and obstacles are prevalent, including a lack of training in ICTs and insufficient ICT infrastructure. The findings suggest libraries should formulate and implement an ICT strategy. It is pivotal for libraries to formulate and implement an ICT strategic plan to be used as a guideline for ICT planning of short and long-term developmental programmes. The findings suggest sufficient funding and effective training programmes should also be of the utmost importance to ensure sustainability and relevancy.
Knowledge Sharing in Indigenous Communities of Practice in the Arts and Crafts Sector in Zimbabwe
Authors: Maisiri Esabel , Ngulube Patrick
Published: September 2022

The study that directed this article sought to understand the dynamics of knowledge sharing in operational engagements in art practice within the indigenous communities of practice in Zimbabwe. To this end, a qualitative study was conducted based on a phenomenology of practice research strategy. Purposive sampling was used to identify the research sites, to study participants at the sites and to review documents for analysis. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews in the field from seven participants, by observations at the research sites and by means of an analysis of documents on biographies of six participants. The findings were that indigenous communities of practice were central in facilitating the sharing and acquisition of artistic knowledge in the art world. In operational interactions, socialisation was the main mode of engagement, both among integrated and naïve artists. The commonly shared knowledge types were artistic and social knowledge, irrespective of the quality of the artworks produced. Rhythmic knowledge was applied largely in the production of airport art. The recommendations were for the indigenous communities of practice to develop knowledge-sharing strategies and for the artists to form a national association that would help them to harness their efforts.
Provision of Assistive Resources for Patrons with Visual Impairment within Academic Libraries in the Midlands Province, Zimbabwe
Authors: Ncube Mthokozisi Masumbika , Kurebwa Mercy
Published: September 2022

The study assessed the strategies that academic libraries in the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe could adopt to enhance the provision of assistive resources to patrons with visual impairment. The assessment grew out of the realisation that even though the introduction of assistive resources within academic libraries in the 20th century impacted positively on such libraries, their uptake in developing countries, including Zimbabwe, is inadequate, uninspiring, and fragmented. A qualitative research approach was adopted. The sample constituted five academic libraries that met the conceptual criteria of academic libraries in the study, 32 patrons with visual impairment, 12 library staff members, five lecturers who teach special needs education, four staff members from student services, and six Zimbabwe Library Association members who were purposively sampled. Questerviews, interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis were used to generate data for the study. The study established that the libraries faced varied challenges in providing assistive resources to the visually impaired patrons, which mostly included inadequate equipment and infrastructure, a lack of budget and financial resources, inadequate training and development, the attitude of library staff members, and a lack of national legislation. The study noted the need for the libraries to implement creative and unique solutions, which include sourcing for donations, undertaking crowdfunding initiatives or establishing public-private partnerships (PPPs). The study also underscored the need for the establishment of Disability Resource Centres in each library under study. In addition, library practitioners, through the Zimbabwe Library Association, should advocate for the establishment of national legislation that focuses on service provision to individuals with disabilities in academic institutions.
The Nexus between Data, Information and Knowledge during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Navigating the Knowledge Management Landscape in South Africa
Authors: Garaba Francis , Nawe Takatso
Published: September 2022

This viewpoint paper is based on desktop research focusing on the discourse of knowledge management (KM). We explore the situation in South Africa with reference to this global COVID-19 apocalypse that the world is being confronted with. By using a qualitative research approach, the concepts of data, information and knowledge are unpacked in the context of this pandemic. KM is evident in the creation, storing, using and effective sharing of information and knowledge in light of COVID-19. The sharing and dissemination of information are, however, technologically orientated as advances in this realm continue to elevate opportunities for transforming KM. All information that has been created and is available to inform society about the virus is shared and distributed through technological means such as electronic and print media, the Internet and social media. As people adjust to the new normal, they will have a hefty repository of pandemic stories, enriched with new vocabulary about the virus and centred on the three concepts of data, information and knowledge. Understanding this new terminology plays a key role in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Incorrect use of this vocabulary can lead to misinformation and could endanger the lives of others. Both the public and government now need “moral knowledge” about the pandemic in the fight against this virus.
Managing Records in the Covid-19 Era at the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority
Authors: Ncaagae-Mbe Katlego
Published: September 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic caused businesses to re-evaluate the way in which to ensure effective information exchange, and the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority was no exception. The Covid-19 lockdowns had such an impact on records management that the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority moved its services online to enable access to information. This article discusses records management practices at the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority during the pandemic, explores the challenges and threats of managing records during the pandemic as experienced by the organisation’s records curators and presents opportunities arising from the pandemic and recommendations. The study adopted a qualitative approach through unstructured interviews, document review, and observation. The interviews were carried out in a focus group. Purposive sampling was used, where four records management personnel were interviewed. The data were analysed narratively by reformulating stories presented by the participants. The article reveals that the challenges included a lack of disaster preparedness plan, misfiling and loss of records, a lack of records management awareness among staff, an over-reliance on electronic records, and the production of audiovisuals despite a lack of policies and measures to manage these records. It was therefore recommended that the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority develop and implement Covid-19 guidelines and remote working guidelines, the business continuity plan for records management and an audiovisual preservation strategy. It also recommended that records management personnel raise awareness of records management among staff.
Exploring the Motivations for Youth Group Membership and Identity Construction in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Bagson Ernest
Published: September 2022

Globally, cities are relevant centres for peace and security studies; however, evidence abounds that many states are incapable of providing adequate social services, including policing the urban space. In sub-Sahara Africa (SSA), rapid urbanisation is synonymous with a rising youthful population, limited youth employment opportunities and emerging youth groups in the streets. Notwithstanding the role of cities as economic hubs, the rise in the unemployed youthful population and the limited urban space governmentality by states, youth group formation to effect collective effort as a survivalist strategy is not uncommon. While some scholars in SSA have largely focused on the initiation processes, consequences, shapes and forms of youth group formation and associated violence within cities, an overarching exposure on youth group identity construction and motivation for youth group membership despite the inherent risk in emerging secondary cities, is limited. Critical discourse analysis of media reports, relevant literature, data from key informant interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) was instrumental in giving a historical perspective of youth group identity construction and young peoples’ motivation for youth group membership in the Tamale metropolis, Ghana. Drawing on the General Strain Theoretical framework, this study aims to foreground how the intersection of politics, economic, cultural, ecological and social marginalities induces young peoples’ desire for youth group membership and defines youth group identity. The study unravels that poverty and economic marginalities, political party-driven interest, religious dogmatism, and ethnic orientation posit strong motivation for youth group membership and defining identity.
Anger in International Relations
Authors: Van Wyk Jo-Ansie
Published: September 2022

Anger is a neglected area in the study of international relations. Set against the broader impact of emotions on international relations and the emotional turn in the human and social sciences, this exploratory article focuses on state and non-state anger (as an emotion) in the contemporary era, here defined as the Age of Anger. The unique attributes of this era and states displaying anger are presented. The article concludes with a description and consequences of the behaviour of angry states and the inherent political utility of and dangers associated with anger.
Context, Performance and Beliefs in D?w??-igbela (?j? Funeral Poetry)
Authors: Imomotimi Armstrong
Published: September 2022

Scholars of African oral literature have been paying critical attention to funerary poetry in Africa ever since the publication of J. H. Nketia’s Funeral Dirges of the Akan People. Nketia’s book generated awareness on the existence of this endangered form of traditional poetry and pointed out the need to investigate and document it in the various ethnic groups for posterity. However, a great deal of this attention is devoted to the dirges of the major ethnic groups on the continent. Therefore, this study examines the context, performance and beliefs expressed in d?w??-igbela, a specialised type of dirge among the ?j?—referred also to as Ijaw or ?z?n of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The article, among other things, demonstrates how each song expresses a belief about the ?j? view of the dead. It concludes that these songs, which are no longer practised, preserve their ancient rituals, customs and beliefs.
Sociocultural Themes in Selected Northern Sotho Fables: The Motif-Index Perspective
Authors: Kgopa Morris , Mathe Dimakatso
Published: September 2022

This article investigates the applicability and significance of the motif-index as a means to identify sociocultural themes in two selected Northern Sotho fables. The focus of this article is on how these motifs reflect on beliefs, customs and practices that exist within the Northern Sotho society as revealed in fables. Themes from the two fables are expounded and contextualised using Stith Thompson’s motif-index alongside Christian Themba Msimang’s views, according to which good deeds are encouraged over those that are considered unacceptable in the society. The article attains this through an analysis that focuses on, among others, literary aspects such as motifs, morals and sociocultural contexts. In conclusion, the article ascertains that the motif-index theory is applicable to explore themes in Northern Sotho fables.
Perceived Masculinity among Basotho Women: An Analysis of Litolobonya Folksongs
Authors: Possa-Mogoera Rethabile , Khotso Palesa , Phafoli Lehlohonolo
Published: September 2022

While most scholars who study masculinity focus on men and leave out women, masculinity also exists among women and bears the same consequences. This study aims to show that masculinity exists among Basotho women as their litolobonya songs testify. Scholars of masculinity have shown that it is acquired. Generally, it is the quality of masculinity that makes someone masculine, not their gender. Among the Basotho, expressions such as Ke monna kaofela (He is a full man) do not solely refer to men but are also used to refer to females who have character traits of men. Masculinity is associated with character traits that one reflects in this society. Therefore, the definition of masculinity relies heavily on each society. The social, religious, political and economic factors, to a great extent, influence masculinity. Through cathexis masculinity, this study analyses data to find out if Basotho women’s songs prove that like men, they have masculine qualities. Data was collected through formal and informal interviews. This study concludes that Basotho women’s songs portray the existence of masculinity among them and as such need support to construct a form of masculinity conducive for their society.
Indigenised Critical Thinking and Epistemic Cognitions: An Ethnopragmatic Analysis of Tshivenda and Yorùbá Proverbs
Authors: M Moffat Sebola , Abodunrin Olufemi
Published: September 2022

This article examines the nature, use and meanings of proverbs as both tools of discourse and for expressing the ideological outlook among the Vhavenda of South Africa and the mores of the Yorùbá of south-western Nigeria. Within the Vhavenda and Yorùbá cultures and traditions, proverbs, as a form of folklore, are verbally expressed and transmitted from one generation to another. Inherent in these elements are the cultural and ideological traits that are easily identified by both the native speakers and listeners of the two cultures. To satisfy its exegetical and hermeneutic ambitions, this article analysed a selection of Tshivenda and Yorùbá proverbs, with the analysis undergirded by ethnopragmatics and the contextual theory of meaning. The proverbs were selected on the basis of a predetermined set of themes, namely, proverbs about cooperation and interdependence, nature, trees and other plants, animals and reptiles, people, body parts, children, craftiness and consequences, ingratitude, obstinacy and pride as well as didactic, motivational and reassuring proverbs. Tshivenda and Yorùbá proverbs were found to be both direct and indirect tools that are used to bring out the Vhavenda’s and the Yorùbá’s cultural identity and the inherent traits of their ideologies. It is recommended that paroemiology be considered in the various spheres of “formal” African epistemologies and pedagogies.
“Moment of Madness”: Ethnic Marginalisation and Exclusionary Development, are they not Social Development Issues?
Authors: Ndhlovu Nokukhanya
Published: September 2022

Even though the concept of development means different things to different people, the general consensus is that it should not be discriminatory nor exclusionary. It should also not obstruct basic human needs or real human interests. Against this backdrop, many governments have adopted integrated people-centred development that caters for all people irrespective of their location, ethnicity, race or gender, among other things. The study discusses the way in which the Zimbabwean government has used development to marginalise and exclude minority ethnicities from its development agenda. More particularly, the study discusses the way in which development in Zimbabwe has been used as a tool to exploit, sideline and disempower the amaNdebele people. The study concludes that whereas many nations have opted for people-centred development, Zimbabwe has taken a different route. For the country, the term development has a different meaning altogether. Not only is it top-down, disempowering and exclusionary, but it is also divisive, structurally violent and incredibly hateful. The study recommends that Zimbabwe openly discuss and acknowledge that tribalism exists and be willing to redress the legacy of hegemonic politics and separate development intentionally and effectively.
Motion Pictures and the Decline of Cultural Values among Nigerian Youths
Authors: Agwu Prince , Nche George , Chukwu Ngozi , Ebue Malachy , Onuh Paul
Published: September 2022

Cultural sustainability, which is a part of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, highlights the imperativeness of intergenerational continuity of cultural heritage, beliefs, and practices among different peoples of the world. It is in this light that our qualitative study examines the impacts on cultural values in Nigeria by both indigenous and foreign motion pictures, and the possible implications for the practice of social work. The study used a cross-sectional survey research design to source data from 48 youths by means of in-depth interviews. The data were analysed thematically in line with a phenomenological research design. The findings showed that indigenous cultural values (language, dress styles, sexual norms, etc.) are threatened, and a preference for Western motion pictures was implicated. However, the participants equally mentioned positive events characterising Western motion pictures, which they recommended that indigenous motion pictures should imbibe. Growing and developing the overall quality of the contents of indigenous motion pictures through enhanced viewers’ preference were discussed to have social and economic values which social workers could help harness.
Psychosocial Experiences of Family Caregivers of Children with Intellectual Disabilities in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Authors: Mmangaliso Azola , Lupuwana Vuyokazi Phumza Pearl
Published: September 2022

In this study, we explored the psychosocial experiences of family caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities in the rural town of Alice in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. We intended to uncover the psychosocial well-being of family caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities. We adopted qualitative research methods. Snowball sampling was employed to recruit 15 family caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities in Alice. The age of the family caregivers ranged from 20 to 65. All the participants were black people and included both males and females. The data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured individual interviews. We analysed the data using thematic analysis. The study findings indicate that family caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities experience the caregiving process negatively in the various aspects of life. These aspects include social, personal, financial, emotional and health aspects. Also, the caregiving process carries a heavy burden. In light of the findings, we conclude that there is a need for the continuous rendering of comprehensive psychosocial support services to family caregivers of children with disabilities. It is recommended that social workers empower family caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities so that they can function effectively in their communities. Furthermore, the government needs to reinforce existing policies that support these psychosocial services.
The Role of Social Work in Advancing Capacity in Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Kingdom of Eswatini
Authors: Kebede Wassie , Dlamini Clement , Drolet Julie , Nicholas David
Published: September 2022

This reflection article, which positions itself within an ecological systems approach, focuses on advancing the capacity for effective responses to autism spectrum disorder in Eswatini. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder with impacts ranging from mild to severe. Knowledge about this condition in Africa is limited, as exemplified by a very small body of research conducted in African countries. This article presents the developmental work underway in the Kingdom of Eswatini to raise awareness and to build capacity in autism spectrum disorder. It focuses on (1) increased understanding and recognition of the need and direction for capacity-building, (2) collective learning for proactive change, (3) policy and practice advancement, and (4) disciplinary development in social work in the service of this advancement. Recommendations for ongoing advancement are offered.
The Influence of a Prosocial Community Action on Privileged Adolescents’ Sense of Awareness
Authors: Jacobs Issie , Potgieter Christelle
Published: September 2022

The aim of the study was to explore and describe the influence of participating in a prosocial community action on privileged adolescents’ sense of awareness. A qualitative descriptive design was incorporated to purposively select 10 female and 6 male racially diverse privileged adolescents between 17 and 18 years who participated in a voluntary house-building project in a semi-rural community. The data were gathered by using focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews, supported by a creative artwork activity. A thematic analysis suggested that the adolescents acquired an awareness on an intrapersonal level, an awareness of the socio-economic divide in their community, an awareness of a social responsibility, and an awareness of their individualistic culture. Prosocial community actions appear to engender positive introspective reflection among adolescent school learners, and an awareness of the circumstances of others of which they otherwise would not have taken notice.
Fathers’ Perceptions of and their Role in the School Readiness of their Preschool Child
Authors: Munnik Erica , Meyburgh Celeste , Smith Mario
Published: September 2022

The study explored fathers’ perceptions of and their role in preparing their preschool child for mainstream education. The role of fathers in providing conditions for optimal development of children is often overlooked. This exploratory study incorporated semi-structured interviews with nine fathers residing in Cape Town, South Africa. Audio recordings were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Three thematic categories were identified: perceptions of school readiness, external feedback that guides fathers’ perspectives of school readiness; and roles and responsibilities regarding school readiness. The findings suggested that, in general, fathers lacked knowledge about school readiness and child development. Fathers’ beliefs about school readiness were often informed by their subjective experiences. The feedback from professionals was acknowledged as a primary source of information about school readiness. External facilitation of school readiness happens across numerous contexts pertaining to the individual, family, and school. Fathers were regarded as important role players across these contexts. It emerged that fathers’ roles remain undervalued and their ability to participate is diminished owing to their limited knowledge, gendered patterns to child rearing, and the lack of engagement with school systems.
Experiences of Women in Precarious Employment in South Africa’s Economy
Authors: Raniga Tanusha
Published: September 2022

South African policy discourses about the feminisation of poverty have been dominated by the notion that poor women remain poor because they are trapped in the “second economy” disconnected from the mainstream first economy. Based on research conducted in Makhushane in rural Limpopo and in one low-income community in Gauteng, I present compelling evidence for complex practices of reciprocity of informal economic activity and self-employment. The article examines women’s agency in informal work with particular reference to the heterogeneous nature of the South African economy. This article profiles the lives of 16 single mothers who provide insights into the challenges they confront while working in the second economy. I argue that these forms of informal livelihood activities are economically invaluable and subsidiary and supplement the first economy in complex ways. By examining the lives of single mothers, this article attempts to testify to the persistence of gender inequalities and complex life choices and life chances that women confront in the second economy. This article seeks to contribute to the discourses on gender and economic development and calls for policymakers to support the livelihood strategies of women who are found at the margins of the first economy.
Peacebuilding Through Early Childhood Care and Education in a Post-Conflict Society: The Roles of the Parents and the Early Childhood Development Centres in Gulu District, Northern Uganda
Authors: Ntini Thobeka , Omona Julius
Published: September 2022

This article presents a qualitative study conducted in Gulu district, northern Uganda, in 2018 and 2019 on peacebuilding through early childhood care and education. The aim of the study was to understand the roles played by the parents and early childhood development institutions in promoting peacebuilding traits in children, which is not the norm in evidence-based studies and literature. The study was framed by the ecology-of-peace framework, the root causes or justice theory and the sociocultural theory. The study was exploratory, cross-sectional and descriptive in nature and adopted two non-probability sampling techniques, namely purposive and convenience sampling. Semi-structured primary source data were collected through key informant interviews. Other sources of data were four non-participatory observations of children in three centres and document reviews of the Ugandan National Integrated Early Childhood Development Policy and its action plan, lesson plans and the curriculum. The findings indicate that many of the core parental roles fulfil the requirements for successful peacebuilding through early childhood care and education approaches, yet have gone unnoticed in peacebuilding and early childhood care and education. The role of early childhood care and education complement that of parents in preparing children to be better citizens. Recommendations are directed to stakeholders to support early childhood care and education.
Social Workers’ and Homeless People’s Understanding of Ways to Redress Homelessness
Authors: Kgadima Phuti Nathaniel , Mahlangu Timson
Published: September 2022

Homeless people are arguably the most marginalised and vulnerable of communities. The marginalisation of homeless people not only occurs in economic and social terms, but also with respect to participation in the process of service delivery and decisions that affect them. Consequently, some researchers have identified the disjuncture between services offered to homeless people and their needs. In this article, using a qualitative, exploratory and descriptive approach, we explore the understanding of social workers and homeless people in redressing homelessness. We used face-to-face semi-structured interviews to generate data. The data were analysed thematically. The findings indicate that social workers’ and homeless people’s accounts of understanding and redressing homelessness are contradictory. Conversely, collaboration between social workers and homeless people could create an informed understanding of homelessness and the opportunity for the two parties to learn from each other.