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The scarcity and inaccessibility of land in urban areas has become a major obstacle in the provision of housing to low-income groups in developing countries. This thesis studies the land policies and practices in Metropolitan Kano, Nigeria, and investigates the issues and problems hindering the adequate supply of residential land to low-income groups. / The thesis commences with a general study of urban land policies and low-income housing in developing countries. It examines the nature of housing problems in developing countries, the role of land in the housing problems, issues addressed by land policies, and policy measures and strategies used. The general study is followed by a specific study of the land policies and practices in the study area. The policy and institutional management frameworks are identified and examined. The roles of the major institutions are explained. The last section identifies and examines the main issues and problems with the existing policies. / The thesis concludes that actions are necessary to address the identified issues and problems with the policies in order to avoid chaos. Suggestions for policy reform are made.

The Republic of Transkei, the first of the "Independent" National States has financed a number of research projects which have attempted to establish a data base on which a Five Year Development Plan can be grounded. A important element of this plan has been the suggestion of the creation of a hierarchy of Service Centres in the rural areas of Transkei. From these, it is envisaged that essential services could be distributed to the rural poor. In addition, these Centres are expected assist with the co-ordination of other projects based in the rural areas, and, further, to contain some inherent growth potential which could stimulate development. It was intended that this thesis should provide a critical analysis development planning in for the rural areas of Transkei. Particular attention has been paid to the existing conditions and structures in the rural areas, and the manner in which these might influence the success or otherwise of a Service Centre Approach. In addition, the relationship between rural households in Transkei, and the South African economy has also been examined. Chapter One of this thesis introduces the importance of development studies in Southern Africa. It goes on to examine the important theoretical approaches to Third World economies, notably, the Dualistic and the Dependency paradigms. The Althussarian concept of an articulation of two or more modes of production is discussed in this section. Thereafter, the Southern African development experiance is reviewed, taking into account the Liberal and Radical interpretations, and placing these within the paradigms discussed earlier. The chapter concludes by situating Transkei within the broader Southern African political economy. Chapter Two discusses the Rural Service Centre concept, and the emphasis which has been placed on it in Transkeian planning. The chapter raises a number a crucial questions regarding this concept and posits that a deeper understanding of the conditions in the rural areas might assist in providing the answers for some of these questions. To this end a household survey was conducted in the Umzimkulu District of Transkei, and the chapter concludes with a description of methodology, and of the areas which were selected for survey. Chapters Three to Five present the findings of the survey, and represent the empirical core of the thesis. Chapter Three describes the demographic characteristics of the sampled population. Chapter Four deals at length with the income generating ability of the rural households, taking into account subistence agriculture, local formal and informal employment, welfare payments and remittances. In addition, a wealth index has been created, and the distribution of wealth examined. Chapter Five briefly introduces the Basic Needs Approach to development, and the remainder of the chapter concerns itself with the fulfilment of essential needs in the Umzimkulu District. Finally, chapter Six draws together the dependnecy theory discussed in chapter One, the data presented in chapters Three to Five, and the politio-economic structure of Transkei. The chapter argues that although the Service Centre Approach may appear to be a suitable strategy for development in purely spatial terms, in fiscal terms the approach contains a crucial flaw. Such an approach requires a redistribution of resources from the urban wealthy to the rural poor. In view of Transkei's dependent status viv-a-vis South Africa, and in view of the nature of the Transkeian bureaucracy , it is argued that such a transfer seems unlikely. However, in order to move away from the overall pessimistic tone of the conclusion, it is suggested the Last Word that, ultimately, it appears that the position of the rural poor will only recieve attention once this group becomes important to politicians in Umtata and Pretoria. Consequently, local development projects should seek ways in which they will be noticed by the government. / Thesis (M.Dev.Studies)-University of Natal, Durban, 1984.

With the establishment of the Financial Sector Charter, all the major banks are now 'committed' to provide banking f a c i l i t i es to anyone within a ten-kilometer radius of their home. Specific deadlines have been set, in which these banks will face huge penalties, if they have not achieved the agreed proposals. The justification for this study is to have a look at the feasibility of this charter in meeting the goals proposed without having a detrimental effect on the long-term profitability of Standard Bank. Making banking affordable to the previously unbanked sector is paramount to the success of bringing more people back into the financial mainstream. Mention must be made that banks with poor business models, reckless management practices and poor corporate governance do go out of business in South Africa and elsewhere. During this study, an in-depth literature review was done to analyze the causes of strategic failures in the South African financial services sector, as well as analyzing the strategies proposed by other leading financial institutions within the local and international financial services industry and comparing this to Standard Bank's strategy. The research technique is essentially qualitative, but will involve the collection of quantitative and qualitative data through the use of a questionnaire. This dissertation investigates what the big four banks in South Africa (with emphasis on Standard Bank) have achieved regarding opening up access to their saving and lending facilities to the unbanked, taking cognizance of the trends locally and internationally, finally leading to a conclusion as to the most appropriate strategy for the future. An investigation will be conducted into whether this financial institution should employ a prescriptive or emergent strategy approach in order to successfully compete in this sector. The different lending strategies, namely linkage banking, downscaling, and dedicated banks are analyzed with reference to the international experience. / Thesis (MBA)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2007.

It is believed that by knowing user characteristics during the pre-design stage, the architect can better satisfy the economic requirements and spatial preferences of the user. The author's goal in this study is to demonstrate the validity of four variables in providing information about prospective home buyers in a particular site in order to define their housing needs during the programming stage. / Past studies suggested four variables from which basic design guidelines could eventually be extracted: socio-demographic characteristics, type of household/life cycle stage, economic characteristics and mobility. The validity of these variables were tested by the author in four case studies which included several low-cost housing projects in metropolitan Montreal. Information from indirect sources (i.e. literature survey and evaluation of existing projects), was compared to direct sources (i.e. target projects in which the information was readily available). The results established the relevance of some of the variables, and indicated that reliable information could be obtained by architects and housing researchers from indirect sources, thereby, optimizing time and resources.

The aim of the study was to analyse the survival strategies of the poor households in Boitumelo township. The research methodology used herein was two fold: Firstly, a literature research based on economic journals, previous research projects, books and internet was done in order to develop a better understanding of poverty. Secondly, an empirical research survey using questionnaires was undertaken. Over the years there have been competing theories which provide an understanding of poverty. Each approach has its strengths and weaknesses. Poverty captures a wide range of meanings, depending on who is defining it. Although various technical solutions have been suggested for differentiating the poor and non-poor using the monetary approach, there is no theory of poverty that clearly differentiate the poor from the non-poor. The survey results showed that 41% of all households in Boitumelo are poor and on average have an income shortage of 63% to the poverty line. Poverty within the area has a gender bias as 76% of the poor are females. The large number of households below the poverty line provided ample opportunity for further analysis to find out about the activities that they use to sustain themselves. Being unemployed in government or manufacturing industries, the urban poor are compelled to create some sort of jobs for themselves. Street vending, odd jobs, gambling, seeking credit on exploitative terms, income from state welfare, begging for survival are just a few of the activities urban poor adopt to survive / Thesis (MCom (Economics))--North-West University, Vaal Triangle Campus, 2013

This research is concerned with poor communication as a source of conflict in the marriage, as seen from a practical-theological viewpoint. Certain questions presented themselves from within the theme, namely: What does Scripture teach regarding communication and poor communication in the marriage? What influence do interpersonal differences between marriage partners have on communication and poor communication in the marriage? How can marriage partners be guided so that poor communication within the marriage can be dealt with in such a manner as to enrich their marriage? Poor communication is the most common problem in marriages. Couples view poor communication as a major source of interpersonal conflict within the marriage. With the fall of man the communion between God and man, and between husband and wife was broken. The redemptive work of Jesus Christ made it possible for this communion between man and God and husband and wife to be restored. Communication can be effective when founded on the Scripture and conflict can be a relationship builder. The purpose of this study was to utilize Zerfass model to conduct a study regarding the meta- and basis-theoretical perspectives on poor communication and to place it in interaction with a practice-theory for pastoral theology in mind. Research has indicated that marital couples experience conflict within the marriage as a result of poor communication. It also has an effect on their relationship with God. The counsellor must be able to effectively communicate within his own marriage before he can counsel married couples. The conclusion of this research is that married couples that experience conflict as a result of poor communication can be assisted to overcome this problem and experience sound marital relationship and communication. / Thesis (M.A. (Practical Theology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2006.

This study was aimed at unearthing the underlying factors for the Church's poor engagement in poverty and development and to propose an appropriate strategy for transformational development in Kibera. The research asked "What are the underlying factors for the Church's poor engagement with poverty and development that will inform a comprehensive strategy for transformational development in the Kibera area" This was shaped strongly by the believe that God has strategically positioned and mandated the local church as the agent of both spiritual and social transformation in communities, more so in Kibera. The study focused on the stakeholders of change or development in Kibera, who included church leaders, government representatives, non–governmental organizations, civil society organizations as well community members. In addition, the study also targeted key informants who have critical information on the subject of study, within and outside Kibera. The study applied purposeful sampling to identity respondents. This was because purposeful sampling is easy, flexible and helps one to target the right respondents with the right information for the right questions. It also saves a lot of time. Both structured and unstructured questionnaires were used to carry out interviews with the sampled groups. Overall the response to the study was almost 80 per cent, which is a good representation. Data was coded and analysed and a report generated, which formed the basis for presentation on the findings guided by the main research question. The Bible is very clear on issues of poverty and development and sets the foundation for human engagement for transformation. All good development can be traced to Scripture. It was very clear that Kibera faces a huge problem of poverty, which is complex and multi–faceted in nature. Despite the various efforts by many players including the Church to alleviate poverty, the situation has remained unchanged. Although there are many churches that are seeking to impact the poor in this sprawling informal settlement, their influence remains untapped. The study found out that several factors combine together to make the church's engagement in integral mission very low. Some of these factors include, low educational levels, lack of adequate and relevant training that empowers the churches to engage in holistic ministry. In addition poor and uncoordinated approaches as well as ignorance on the part of the church, still contribute greatly to this problem. Hence an urgent need for an appropriate strategy that seeks to engage the local churches fully in bringing transformational development in Kibera. Following these revelations, the study has identified several elements that should be considered in developing an integrated transformational strategy for Kibera. Some of the key elements include partnerships, empowerment and capacity building on the part of the churches, holistic programming as well as a strong focus on advocacy to help confront the systems and structures that continue to perpetuate poverty in Kibera. Towards that end, the study recommends a three–legged model: Sustained Transformational Model (STM) for Kibera that focuses on sustained holistic programming, sustained partnerships as well as sustained advocacy. The primary focus of the model (centre) is to ensure sustained well being of communities. In the end the study has made some critical recommendations for key stakeholders in Kibera. The churches are called upon to embrace a more holistic and sustainable approach to ministry. The governments and other development partners are challenged to consider and include in their strategies ways and means to strengthen the local churches as the sustaining community institutions to bring authentic transformational change in Kibera. Finally, those interested in further studies are provide with some key areas that they can investigate further, key being the specific contribution of churches in development in Kibera. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Missiology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.

From the researcher’s personal work experience it was found that there appeared to be a cycle of poverty and welfare dependency in multi–problem poor families. This research was undertaken as a means to lay foundational work in identifying risk and protective factors in multi–problem poor families living in Cape Town. A qualitative research approach was utilised and interviews were conducted with participants that met the selection criteria. The objectives of the research were to gather data in the form of deep, descriptive narrative accounts of multi–problem families’ chronosystems and current life issues, with a focus on the life challenges and difficulties that put the family at risk. The data was collected by means of interviews utilising a semi–structured interview schedule as well as tools such as genograms, ecomaps, and life lines (see Addendum 4). Analysed data indicated themes of intergenerational risk factors that included substance abuse, domestic violence, teenage pregnancy and early school dropout. It was also found that within the current generation, absent parents was a major risk factor for children. Protective factors and variables that promoted resilience in families were also explored. It was found that religious beliefs, community support systems and personal resources were the major protective factors in these families. The research findings led to the identification of a number of early–intervention projects and programmes that could be implemented to address the identified risk factors in multi–problem poor families. These interventions include school literacy and support programmes, improved sex education in schools and community support forums. / Thesis (M.A. (MW))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.

This study was aimed at unearthing the underlying factors for the Church's poor engagement in poverty and development and to propose an appropriate strategy for transformational development in Kibera. The research asked "What are the underlying factors for the Church's poor engagement with poverty and development that will inform a comprehensive strategy for transformational development in the Kibera area" This was shaped strongly by the believe that God has strategically positioned and mandated the local church as the agent of both spiritual and social transformation in communities, more so in Kibera. The study focused on the stakeholders of change or development in Kibera, who included church leaders, government representatives, non–governmental organizations, civil society organizations as well community members. In addition, the study also targeted key informants who have critical information on the subject of study, within and outside Kibera. The study applied purposeful sampling to identity respondents. This was because purposeful sampling is easy, flexible and helps one to target the right respondents with the right information for the right questions. It also saves a lot of time. Both structured and unstructured questionnaires were used to carry out interviews with the sampled groups. Overall the response to the study was almost 80 per cent, which is a good representation. Data was coded and analysed and a report generated, which formed the basis for presentation on the findings guided by the main research question. The Bible is very clear on issues of poverty and development and sets the foundation for human engagement for transformation. All good development can be traced to Scripture. It was very clear that Kibera faces a huge problem of poverty, which is complex and multi–faceted in nature. Despite the various efforts by many players including the Church to alleviate poverty, the situation has remained unchanged. Although there are many churches that are seeking to impact the poor in this sprawling informal settlement, their influence remains untapped. The study found out that several factors combine together to make the church's engagement in integral mission very low. Some of these factors include, low educational levels, lack of adequate and relevant training that empowers the churches to engage in holistic ministry. In addition poor and uncoordinated approaches as well as ignorance on the part of the church, still contribute greatly to this problem. Hence an urgent need for an appropriate strategy that seeks to engage the local churches fully in bringing transformational development in Kibera. Following these revelations, the study has identified several elements that should be considered in developing an integrated transformational strategy for Kibera. Some of the key elements include partnerships, empowerment and capacity building on the part of the churches, holistic programming as well as a strong focus on advocacy to help confront the systems and structures that continue to perpetuate poverty in Kibera. Towards that end, the study recommends a three–legged model: Sustained Transformational Model (STM) for Kibera that focuses on sustained holistic programming, sustained partnerships as well as sustained advocacy. The primary focus of the model (centre) is to ensure sustained well being of communities. In the end the study has made some critical recommendations for key stakeholders in Kibera. The churches are called upon to embrace a more holistic and sustainable approach to ministry. The governments and other development partners are challenged to consider and include in their strategies ways and means to strengthen the local churches as the sustaining community institutions to bring authentic transformational change in Kibera. Finally, those interested in further studies are provide with some key areas that they can investigate further, key being the specific contribution of churches in development in Kibera. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Missiology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.