Thesis (MBA.) -- University of Limpopo, 2015 / This report focused on investigating the awareness and utilisation of government programme for development and support of SMMEs. The study acknowledges the fact that youth participation in entrepreneurial activities can reduce the high number of unemployment in the country and can contribute in the economy of especially rural areas. This was a qualitative study conducted in Mankweng area in Limpopo and the focus group was the youth who have post-matric qualifications. The sample consisted of fifteen graduates, of ages 25 to 35, who were not working and actively looking for employment. Male participants in the study formed 33 per cent, while the female participants were at 67 per cent. The main findings were that only a few of the participants were aware of the available government support programmes. Of those that were aware, many were unsure about how to access these programmes while others did not even think about starting their own businesses. The study recommends that these programmes ought to be accessible to the local government and should form part of the developmental programme of municipalities to ensure greater awareness and utilisation; and that youth need to be encouraged to start thinking more about starting their own businesses as an alternative to formal employment

Thesis (M. Dev.) -- University of Limpopo, 2013 / The aim of the study was to carry out an analysis of the factors influencing tenants’ choice of residential property location in Mankweng Township. The study used both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. The structured questionnaire, interview and documented literature were used to collect data. The data were analysed using the SPSS statistical package and the Excel spread sheet. To this end, specific working objectives were formulated as follows: to identify the types of residential property in the study area, to determine the factors which influence the choice of residential property location in the study area and lastly, to compare the relationships that exist among the residents in Mankweng Township. The results of the research showed that among all the factors marital status, age, household’s size, race, education and income were not among the factors influencing the choice of residential location in Mankweng Township. However, gender, employment status, distance from city centre, hospital, place of worship, security or police station, water and electricity significantly influenced the choice of residential location choice in Mankweng Township. The study therefore recommends government to be more responsive and active in the provision of urban infrastructure and services in every neighbourhood. This will help address the major reason why tenants search for accommodation from one location to another. In addition, real estate investors should consider the availability of infrastructure before choosing a location for community development. Thus, when urban facilities and services are evenly distributed, this may enhance proper development in the community