Explore publications.

Illegal mining, particularly as carried out by Zama Zamas (informal artisanal miners), has become an escalating concern in South Africa, presenting multifaceted challenges to affected communities. This study investigates the localised impacts of illegal mining in Atok, a community situated in Limpopo Province, through the lived experiences and perceptions of its residents. Employing a qualitative research design, the study uncovers the profound socio-economic and environmental consequences resulting from unregulated mining activities. Key findings include widespread environmental degradation, disruption of local economic activities, compromised public health, and a notable rise in crime and insecurity. These outcomes not only undermine the well-being of residents but also impede sustainable development in the region. The research underscores the urgent need for coordinated interventions involving government entities, local authorities, and community stakeholders to rehabilitate affected areas, enforce existing mining legislation, and implement community-based development initiatives. The insights generated contribute to the broader discourse on illegal mining and offer policy-relevant recommendations for mitigating its adverse effects in South Africa and similar contexts globally.

Programme evaluation is a critical management tool internationally, enabling the assessment of whether public sector policy objectives are effectively met. In South Africa, such evaluations are essential for refining governance strategies in response to persistent urban challenges. This paper arises from a programme evaluation of inner-city turnaround initiatives aimed at addressing urban decay and problem buildings. It seeks to develop a normative public management model, with a focus on the role of city governments and municipalities in leading regeneration efforts. A qualitative research design was adopted, employing thematic content analysis to examine governance and management practices across South African municipalities. Systems theory, conceptualised within public administration and management, served as the analytical framework for interrogating the interrelated factors driving urban decline. This lens informed the construction of a normative model designed to guide coordinated municipal responses, enhance institutional capacity, and improve strategic urban planning. Findings demonstrate that systems theory offers a robust foundation for understanding and managing the complexities of inner-city environments. The paper presents a visual normative model that emphasises the critical leadership role of city governments in reversing urban deterioration. By bridging theory and practice, the study contributes to academic and practical discourses on urban governance and offers a structured, adaptable model for inner-city regeneration both locally and globally.