Faculty of Military Sciences

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The Faculty of Military Sciences is an academic-military institution that provides world class military contextualised higher education through teaching and learning, research, community interaction and professional military development.

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Analysing human resources acquisition in the South African military health service
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-12) Letebele, Pelonomi Clementine; Theletsane, Kula Ishmael; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Sciences. School for Defence Organisation and Resource Management.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The SAMHS uses the Military Skills Development System to source candidates to join its ranks, reinforcing the Reserve Force component in contribution to fulfilling the national security mandate, and in fulfilment of its broadened role of socio-economic upliftment. This study focused on the human resource acquisition process in the SAMHS, interrogating the activities and procedures used to identify best talent among potential candidates and assessing its efficacy in aligning acquisition to employment opportunities in the SAMHS. Literature suggests that an effective, efficient and economical human resource plan, drawn within the ambit of relevant policies and guidelines and based on an ideal of professionalising the Force, is essential to facilitate the matching of potential candidates having requisite knowledge, skills, attitude and aptitude, to available organisational opportunities. The study used a convergent parallel mixed method to collect qualitative and quantitative data around the same period, and interpreted the overall results to best understand the situation. A phenomenological research approach was used to interrogate the SAMHS’ human resource acquisition processes. Sampling was done mainly through analysis of various documents to gain insight and enhance understanding of the processes followed by the SAMHS and for comparison with best practice. Qualitative data was further gathered using purposive sampling, by interviewing HR functionaries to supplement data gathered from records and to obtain their perceptions about the acquisition process. The findings portrayed the annual HR acquisition process of the SAMHS as adequate for getting the quantities needed but revealed gaps in processes for soliciting and identifying suitably qualified talents. The SAMHS has further not embraced emerging recruitment and selection trends, such as technologically-based platforms which are cost effective, save time, and have the potential to drastically improve efficiency. In its endeavour to bring about change, the study recommends transformation in the SAMHS’ human resource acquisition process by changing from a predominantly traditional, routine-based process, to evidence-based practice, informed by operational requirements, as well as the SAMHS’ capacity to train and be aligned to the allocated budget. The change would add a dimension of quality to the HR acquisition process, making it a purposeful and intentional process aimed at getting candidates of a specific calibre to benefit the SAMHS in its endeavour to execute its mandate.
Analysing the changes in bathymetry of Saldanha Bay between the years 1977 and 2021
(2022-04) Du Toit, Louis; Henrico, Ivan; Mtshawu, Babalwa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Sciences. School for Geospatial Studies and Information Systems.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Possessing one of the finest natural harbours on the South African coast, along with its ideal location on a major international trading route, the Saldanha Bay Municipality has been identified as a key development zone in the blue economy, earmarked to lead major developments in the region. Saldanha Bay is strategically positioned to serve the envisaged oil-and-gas sector on the west coast of the African continent and is a critical area for development for South Africa’s ‘blue economy’. Studies like Henrico & Bezuidenhout (2020) have proven that the changes made during the construction of the Port of Saldanha (PoS) have altered the shape and slope profile of Saldanha Bay (herein called the Bay, which refers to both Inner and Outer Bay, described in section 1.2) significantly, thus changing the hydrodynamics of the Bay. The aim of this study is to compare and analyse the changes in bathymetry of Saldanha Bay between 1977 and 2021. The general tendency of gradual increase in depth from the coastline towards the mouth of the Bay, with sharp increases in depth off Elandspunt and Salamanderpunt, is the same for both 1977 and 2021. The Ordinary Kriging (OK) interpolation method, employed by means of a Geographic Information System (GIS), was selected for creating surface models of the bathymetry of Saldanha Bay, and for conducting the comparison between the two datasets. Said comparison will determine the change in bathymetry over the 44-year period. A slope analysis was also performed to determine the stability of the ocean floor of the Bay. The results of this study indicate a general increase in depth since 1977, with most of the pixels in the graphical representation of the Bay (68.2%) indicating a depth increase between 0.395 - 3.203 m, and an average increase in depth within Big Bay of 1.799 m between 1977 - 2021. There were also two areas identified which experienced changes beyond the standard deviation and showed significant increases or decreases in depth. The general slope trend of Big Bay in 2021 remained fairly like that of 1977, with most of the Bay having a relatively low slope, between 0 - 1.3 degrees. However, in 2021 it can be seen that there is a slight increase in overall slope of Big Bay since 1977, with and average slope of 0.51 recorded in 2021, 0.2 degrees more than in 1977. Furthermore, in 2021 the majority of Big Bay had a slope of 1.3 degrees or less, 0.4 degrees more than in1977. Finally, in 2021 Big Bay also showed an increase in the maximum slope recorded in the Bay, with a maximum slope of 14.8 degrees, more than twice the maximum slope recorded in 1977. The findings of this study support the statements made by Flemming (1977) and Henrico & Bezuidenhout (2020) that the construction of the PoS changed the sedimentation processes within Saldanha Bay to some extent. However, the findings of this study are only relevant for a portion of Saldanha Bay, the inclusion zone in Big Bay as indicated in section 4.3. In this area however, there has been a total loss of 49 364 560.0 m3 in volume. The exact nature and driving forces behind this loss in volume still requires further investigation to be fully understood.
An analysis of the maritime domain governance architecture in Southern Africa
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2022-12) Mkhonto, David Maningi; Blaine, Mark; Ramokgadi, S. B.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School for Security and Africa Studies: Military Strategy.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Southern Africa's maritime domain covers a vast territory which covers 16 seaboard and island state countries in the SADC region. This territory offers numerous blue ocean economy opportunities for these states in their Exclusive Economic Zones. However, in addition to potential blue ocean economy opportunities in this maritime domain, the vastness of the territory exposes these seaboard and island state countries to a number of maritime security threats which are transnational and multidimensional in nature. This causes complexities that could only be best addressed through multilateral and regional cooperative policy architectures. To address the issue of maritime threats and benefit from the blue ocean economic opportunities, a number of agreements have been entered into by different governments in the region. The result has been the signing of approximately nineteen policies. However, the Maritime Domain Centres are not linked and operate independent of each other without coordination. This results in fragmented and duplicated effort and inefficient use of resources. Accordingly, while the potential for developing a regional cooperative architectural regime exists, it is not being realised as the policies agreed on the state level are not being implementation. The criticality of policy coordination through a regional cooperative architectural regime is heightened by an increase in the activities of transnational organized crime within the maritime domain of these Southern African states. Therefore, the need to establish why policies for a coordinated effort agreed on the state level are note being implemented is critical. This research analyses the maritime domain governance architecture in Southern Africa and evaluates the presence of governance architecture, as well as its challenges, implementation, and efficacy.
An analysis of the social-economic effects of a water crisis on households in the Western Cape: Evidence from Paarl
(2022-12) Joseph, Darren Christopher; Mkhize, Mbekezeli Comfort; Madumi, Phathutshedzo; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School for Defence Organisation and Resource Management.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Water crises affect human beings differently from one country to the next. Many studies have investigated the causes and consequences of water crises, yet the Western Cape’s water crisis remains a serious problem. This study aimed to analyse the socio-economic effects of the Western Cape’s water crisis on households in Paarl. Existing literature, including books, journal articles, conference papers, and Internet articles, was reviewed to gain insight into the phenomenon of water crises. In support of the existing literature, the study employed the qualitative research approach to collect empirical data. Qualitative data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 20 residents, five municipal officials, and five engineers. Each sample had its own interview guide to gather information from these participants. The study employed the Homer-Dixon environmental scarcity theory and the demand management theory to understand and explain the concept of water crises. The thematic analysis method was used to analyse the qualitative data. The key findings revealed that the water crisis affected all the participants; some had lost their jobs, while others were socially affected. Most respondents believed that the water crisis was caused by a combination of climate change and related and consequent low rainfall, overconsumption, human overpopulation, and water wastage factors. Furthermore, the participants pointed out measures that assisted with managing the water crisis, including water restrictions, increased water tariffs, and water meter monitoring. The respondents also suggested ways how water can be used more sparingly, such as using the same water for multiple purposes and using greywater for non-human consumption purposes, such as watering gardens and filling pools, to name a few. Many of these implemented measures and strategies were successful; however, some residents did not comply and were fined by their municipalities. Participants from across the three cohorts sampled agreed that drilling boreholes, recycling water, and building new dams and reservoirs will assist with the stable supply of water in the long term. Furthermore, the engineer participants indicated that the management and maintenance of dams and reservoirs are crucial for storing water. The relevant authorities should upgrade all existing early warning systems and install them in places that are not yet active. These systems should not only be used to indicate pending crises or disasters but should also be used when there is more than enough water to ensure that contingency measures can be taken. The national government should invest more funds in water desalination plants so that seawater can be made safe for human consumption. Local municipalities should constantly remind the public of water-saving methods to decrease domestic consumption. This should be communicated to all stakeholders to secure buy-in from all affected parties. Further investigation is needed on how regional or local water crises influence both national and local economies. The water crisis in the Western Cape has had a significant impact on the local agricultural sector, which, in turn, influenced the country’s economy. Mitigative measures and solutions require urgent investigation, such as finding a more affordable seawater desalination process.
Applying game based learning at the South African Military Academy: an experimental study
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2017-03) Dreyer, Adriaan Marthinus Francois; Dalton, Wayne O.; Dodd, Nicole; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School of Geospacial and Information Sytems.
ENGLISH SUMMARY : The contemporary military environment is characterised by new technologies, advances in computer usage, and a younger generation of students who have the expectation that the use of technology within education is going to increase over the next few years (McClarty, et al., 2012, p. 2). The educational environment is becoming more reliant on technology to help facilitate teaching. Within higher education there are theoretical reports suggesting that games within education can be a feasible solution for supplementing traditional teaching practices in a positive manner, making the learning more interactive and enjoyable for students (Gee, 2011; Annetta, 2008; Borokhovski, Bernard, Tamim, Schmid, & Sokolovskaya, 2016). Although there is much theoretical support for the use of games within education, there is mixed empirical support for the successful use of thereof. The aim of this study is to investigate whether Game-Based Learning (GBL) will result in higher learning gains when compared to traditional teaching methods; in particular, when used as a method to teach JavaScript to undergraduate Computer Information Systems (CIS) students at the Military Academy (MA) of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The study also investigated if GBL can be feasible to use as a teaching method at the MA. A research experiment was conducted to investigate the differences in learning gains between the two afore-mentioned teaching approaches. The difference in learning gain scores were statistically investigated and the necessary conclusions were drawn. From the statistical analysis conducted it should be clear if GBL can be used as a teaching method at the MA. This can only be concluded if the learning gains from GBL are at least as good as the learning gains from the traditional teaching methods. A sample of 47 (n=47) residential students was used. These students are enrolled in CIS as part of their B. Mil studies at the Faculty of Military Science of Stellenbosch University. Participants were selected from the SA Navy, SA Army, and SA Air Force. Participants were tested on their JavaScript knowledge using a pre- and post-test designed experiment. Significance testing was done to determine the differences between the variables. Results reveal no significant difference between the learning gains of the GBL and traditional teaching methods groups. Significant difference in knowledge before and after the study was revealed in both the GBL and traditional teaching groups, indicating both teaching methods are feasible to use as teaching methods at the MA.
The appropriate and optimal role and function of special forces in peace missions
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2022-04) Bester, Louis Andries; Esterhuyse, Abel; Stellenbosch Universty. Faculty of Military Science. School for Security and Africa Studies. Dept. of Political Science. (Mil)
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The fascination with special forces, which is especially prevalent in books, movies and news articles, could be ascribed to the prominence of their use in contemporary conflicts across the globe. The public’s imagination of special forces has become linked with military actions and the armed struggles in the Middle East, Africa and Europe. Special forces are also strategically very appealing to policymakers for a number of reasons. The political confidence vested in special forces is clearly demonstrated in the creation of specialised commands across the world. This goes hand in hand with an increase in operating budgets, manpower and supporting structures for special forces operations. There is, however, a paradox of employing such a highly lethal force in order to pursuit peace. With peacekeeping evolving parallel with the strategic environment, especially in Africa, the trend towards more robust interventions has become prevalent since the end of the Cold War. As such, the requirement for accurate and timely intelligence in peace missions has become crucial. Admittedly, special forces would not necessarily be the soldiers expected to wear blue berets and participate in peace missions. It may come as a surprise to the uninformed, though, to learn that special forces have indeed participated, and are still involved, in peace missions across the globe. The dichotomy of this phenomenon leads one to enquire as to what gave rise to elite military forces, renowned for their rigorous training, specialised skills, and sophisticated equipment to be employed in peace missions.
Armoured warfare : the South African experience in East Africa 1940-1941
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2014-12) Kleynhans, Evert Philippus; Van der Waag, Ian J.; Esterhuyse, A. J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School for Security and Africa Studies: Military History.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Following South African entry into the Second World War on 6 September 1939, the Union Defence Force (UDF) transformed from an ageing peacetime defence force into a modern armed force capable of projecting offensive power. During the interwar period a certain state of melancholia had existed in the UDF in terms of military innovation, which resulted in muddled thinking in the UDF in terms of armoured warfare and mechanisation. The offensive potential of armoured forces was simply not understood by the South African defence planners, with the result that there was only a token armoured force in the UDF in September 1939. The South African entry into the war was the impetus for the development of a viable armoured force within the UDF, and the South African Tank Corps (SATC) was established in May 1940. Changes in both the nature and organisational structure of the South African defence establishment followed. The Italian presence in Abyssinia and Italian Somaliland was seen as a direct threat to the neighbouring British East African territories, and South Africa deployed to Kenya during June 1940, soon after the Italian declaration of war. The South African deployment to East Africa was the first deployment of the UDF in a situation of regular war since the First World War. Despite the doctrine that underpinned the South African deployment of armoured forces in East Africa, the SATC units soon learned that the accepted doctrine, borrowed from the British War Office during the interwar period, was but a mere guide to offensive employment. The story of the South African deployment to East Africa during the war is used as a lens through which to investigate the role and employment of both the UDF armoured cars and light tanks. By separately discussing the Allied offensives through Italian Somaliland and southern Abyssinia during 1940-1941, the tactical and operational employment of the South African armour during this time becomes paramount when evaluated against their successes and failures. The nature of the opposing Italian forces in East Africa, the ever-changing topography and climate of the theatre of operations, and the nature of the South African offensive operations throughout the campaign, all combined to shape the novel way in which the armoured cars and tanks of the SATC were employed throughout 1940-1941. The operational experiences that the UDF gained during the campaign in East Africa shaped the further deployments of South African armour to North Africa, Madagascar and Italy during the remainder of the war.
Assessing public participation strategies in people’s housing process in Wallacedene
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-12) Sandile, Unathi; Theron, Francois; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. Dept. of Science and Technology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Public participation is important in housing development. Since the start of democratic government in South Africa, local governments have been encouraged to promote and use public participation to empower its citizens to influence, direct, control and own their development initiatives. In this study the researcher assessed public participation strategies in Nomzabalazo People’s Housing Process in Wallacedene (NPHPW). The study assesses the public participation process applied and relevant strategies used in a housing development programme in the community, and to establish whether public participation in housing development in this area is practiced as local governance legislation suggests. The study also aims to establish how the selected public participation strategies used affect housing development, in particular assess if housing beneficiaries can actually “influence, direct, control and own” the housing project. In addition, the study aims to establish whether the COCT creates an enabling environment for authentic and empowering public participation for housing beneficiaries on matters that affect their lives. Furthermore, the study evaluates public participation by the members of the public particularly beneficiaries in housing development by assessing the public participation strategies used during the housing planning and delivery in Wallacedene, using the International Association for Public Participation (AIP2) Spectrum model and Arnstein’s (1969) ladder typologies.
The axis and Allied Maritime Operations around Southern Africa, 1939-1945
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2018-12) Kleynhans, Evert Philippus; Van der Waag, Ian J.; Fedorowich, Edward Kent; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Sciences. School for Security and Africa Studies. Dept. of Military History.
ENGLISH SUMMARY : The majority of academic and popular studies on the South African participation in the Second World War historically focus on the military operations of the Union Defence Force in East Africa, North Africa, Madagascar and Italy. Recently, there has been a renewed drive to study the South African participation from a more general war and society approach. The South African home front during the war, and in particular the Axis and Allied maritime war waged off the southern African coast, has, however, received scant historical attention from professional and amateur historians alike. The historical interrelated aspects of maritime insecurity evident in southern Africa during the war are largely cast aside by contemporary academics engaging with issues of maritime strategy and insecurity in southern Africa. The all-encompassing nature and extent of the maritime war waged off southern Africa during the Second World War have been far more extensive than suggested in traditional sources. A key understanding of the maritime war is, in effect, incomplete without separate detailed discussions about the opposing Axis and Allied maritime strategies off the coast of southern Africa, the wartime shipping quandaries experienced by the Union of South Africa, and the South African coastal defences. The Axis maritime operations in southern African waters, the so-called maritime intelligence war, and the extended anti-submarine war waged in these waters are equally integral to the discussion. This dissertation aims to provide a critical, comprehensive analysis of the Axis and Allied maritime operations around the coast of southern Africa between 1939 and 1945. The study investigates this inclusive topic through the aforementioned research objectives. The study does not fall into the general ambit of a regimental, campaign or personal military history. Instead, it straddles the strata of war and offers fresh insights into an episode of the South African military history uncommonly investigated by contemporary military historians. The dissertation finds that the Axis and Allied maritime operations off the southern African coast were complex in nature, especially regarding the several strategic, military and economic aspects that have always underpinned them. Moreover, in gaining an understanding of these complex operations, the study reveals the general interrelatedness between the rival Axis and Allied maritime strategies and operations around the southern African coast. Previous studies have failed to recognise this interrelatedness, and have instead offered a one-sided, compartmentalised discussion on single aspects associated with the maritime war waged off southern Africa. This study thus distances itself from previous academic and popular historiography on the subject. It offers, rather, a fresh, in-depth discussion underpinned by extensive archival research, access to previously classified material, and a wealth of secondary sources.
Basic educational reform and provision of quality education in South Africa (1994-2018): A tentative exploration of policy in the making
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2022-12) Lawrence, Audrey Rozanne; Liebenberg, J. C. R.; Mkhize, M. C.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School for Security and Africa Studies: Political Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Quality education as a human right and its emphasis in education policy have garnered much attention in education research. Emphasis has also been placed on what children learn in school, as well as the features of a quality education. Research on education in South Africa is well documented. Much of the existing research focuses on inequality in education, especially the lack of provision of quality education for the majority of learners in South African schools. Quality education includes the provision of learning opportunities that are conducive to mastering basic literacy and numeracy skills as enablers of success in subjects across the curriculum. Various international, regional, and localised South African tests indicate that the mastery of these skills is influenced by the availability of relevant resources and socio-economic conditions, which in South Africa vary greatly between provinces, and even within provinces. The aim of this study was to critically discuss and analyse the role and influence of policy changes within South African basic education (1994-2018) in the provision of quality education in public primary schools. The study followed a qualitative research approach and is partly inductive in nature. For purposes of answering the three research questions that drove this research project, a hybrid approach was followed, which was rooted in a multiple case study design. This was divided into three major political administrations during the period 1994 to 2018 to indicate policy changes that occurred with the change in leadership and agendas that had a notable influence on policy implementation and other challenges in the educational context. Data on literacy and numeracy levels (and quality education) were collected from available literature, governmental and other stakeholder literature, and the works of reputable education researchers. These works were analysed using the document-analysis method. The study employed models of public policy analysis to elucidate the challenges associated with the South African policy environment and the influence thereof on quality education provision in public primary schools. The findings indicated that the quality of education and the attainment of literacy and numeracy levels differ between provinces, and correlate with the languages through which learners acquire literacy and numeracy skills. Poverty levels and parental involvement also differ from province to province. Political instability, state corruption, socio-economic inequality, limitations on social mobility, a poorly educated workforce, and socio-economic conditions all deepen challenges in the education system in general, and the achievement of essential levels of literacy and numeracy in particular. Apartheid’s legacy still impedes the provision of equitable quality education. Provision is also confounded by hasty and poor decision making and a lack of collaborative decision making, which are compounded by unprecedented levels of corruption. Various policy inadequacies exist, especially in terms of language policy in schools, as well as the management of schools. This, along with huge educational backlogs and learning deficits that span centuries, have perpetuated the cycles of ineffective learning in the South African educational landscape. The study recommends that quality provision in schools be tackled from various levels in the collaborative climate envisaged by education policies by adopting the Eastonian feedback loop. Participatory spaces that enable critical citizen engagement need to be established with targeted information sessions, especially for the most vulnerable societies (such as those found in rural areas) with high poverty and unemployment levels. Given the crucial role of teachers and other role players in the learning process, the South African Department of Education needs to finalise the policy on teacher and educator accountability, and accountability should be a core part of all spheres of government. For any initiative to work, structures need to be in place for accountability, competence, and consequences for not living up to required skills and knowledge standards, as emphasised in the national government’s framework for democratic public participation.
Challenges experienced by the female senior officers in the SANDF in Gauteng
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2022-04) Choabi, Motshidisi Martha Salome; Makau, K.L.; Monama, F.L.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School for Security and Africa Studies. Military history. Dept. of Military Strategy.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The centrality of national law and policy making is considered essential in the restructuring of the military environment. These essential tools assess the extent to which transformation, leadership and equality policies and legislative measures substantively change the climate and culture of the military institution. To keep track on the restructuring of the military environment, it is necessary to map out some of the everyday struggles which may often be marginalised by an overemphasis by national and institutional policymakers for change. A qualitative research approach combined with an explorative, descriptive research design was employed to investigate and describe the phenomenon under study, namely the challenges experienced by senior female officers in the SANDF. Seventeen female senior officers of different Arms of Service (Colonels and Captains) were randomly chosen from a pool of 124 in Gauteng to participate in the study. The reason for sampling seventeen female senior officers is because they were the ones that responded positively to the recruiting emails that were sent out inviting female senior officers to partake in the study. Data was gathered by means of a semi-structured interview schedule which was administered during the individual interviews. The method of interviewing used was face-to-face which later changed to telephonic interviews because of the lockdown resulting from COVID 19. All interviews were transcribed, and the narratives were analysed on two levels. During the first level of analysis, themes were identified and preliminary labelling of meaningful units of data was done. These themes were then labelled to be given meaning so that they could form 27 coding categories. This was followed by a second level of analysis where the coding categories were further refined and reduced to seven pattern categories that were labelled and analysed using the PESTEL-S framework that served as a guide to threats and weaknesses from the narratives of participants to guide the organisation towards success. These categories represent the essential aspects on challenges, sources and causes of female senior officers’ challenges in the SANDF. Key findings of the study centred on the issue that 27 years in democracy the SANDF is still struggling with transformation, hence the cited challenges still experienced by female senior officers in different areas in the military environment. What stood out as overarching challenges were lack of support from leadership and lack of institutional/environmental support that eventually resulted in insufficient psycho-social support experienced by female senior officers. All is good and well on paper, but implementation seems to be hindered by passive resistance from the male counterparts in the organisation. According to MTT Report (2020), Sadie (2014), Richardson (2019) and the MTT Report (2020) concerted effort has to be put on institutions and the government to counter this passive resistance and get the transformation policies implemented in order to curb challenges females are confronted with. This includes passive lack of institutional /organisational support, lack of psycho-social support and lack of women empowerment. In the light of the findings, it is recommended that leadership socio-cognitive defences be addressed so that leadership can understand when women say “nothing for us without us”. This persuasive rhetoric echoes the sentiments of women for the leadership to understand the need to include women when making decisions on matters that affect women.
Challenges of arms transfers facing the emerging supplier states in the new international political economy
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2003-12) Khwela, Gcwelumusa, Chrysostomus; Bailey, H. A.; Vrey, F.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. Dept. of Political Science (Mil).
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The fundamental motivation for emerging arms suppliers to produce arms was the desire to overcome their position of dependence in the system of arms production and transfers. However, their predicament as late entrants into the system castigated them to fail in this endeavour. This failure is based on three criteria, which also assist in the identification of emerging suppliers. Firstly, the weaponry they produce is far below the sophistication characterised by higher levels of technological advancement. Secondly, they can only produce one or two advanced weapon systems. Finally, they rely on the leading suppliers for certain sophisticated components of weapon systems which they cannot produce themselves and as a result, become so dependent that they, with an exception of a few, are unable to go beyond the simple reproduction or retrofitting of existing weapon systems. The capability to produce arms was restrictedly extended to certain states in the post-war era, and even those states that obtained such a capability were confmed to producing small arms and platforms for naval vessels. Those states that went beyond these capabilities did so with the assistance of other states or specialists, the initial intention being to meet domestic requirements, and ultimately to dispose surplus Second World War equipment in the re-transfer market. The emerging supplier states' intention to develop indigenous arms industries was driven by the political urge to reduce their reliance on the leading suppliers and to nationalise the arms production process for import substitution in order to meet domestic security needs. Since the emerging suppliers began the process of defence industrialisation from the importation of complete weapon systems to import substitution, and ultimately to the promotion of exports, they mainly relied on technology imported from the leading suppliers. On the one hand, the leading suppliers attempted to hinder the efforts of emerging suppliers to promote arms exports so as to protect their oligopolistic share of the arms market through tightening the controls and regulations on technological supplies. On the other, the emerging suppliers were impelled to promote their arms exports in order to overcome the saturation of their domestic markets, to utilise effectively their arms production capacities, and to positively affect their balance of payments through the procreation of foreign exchange returns. This study reached the following conclusions and inferences: 1. The arms trade has evolved to be characterised by the transfer of military technology, which did not feature in the arms transactions of the previous periods. 2. The gap between the leading and emerging suppliers is widening with regard to the sophistication of technological capabilities, and accordingly the stratification within the arms production and transfer system is sustainable and reinforced, thus making it hard for the lower tiers to progress beyond their current status. 3. The emerging suppliers' share of and contribution into the arms market is constricted, and as such they specialise in specific (often uncomplicated) weapon systems that constitute niches in the global market. 4. The unfolding arms production and transfer system is characterised by a fiercely competitive atmosphere, and consequently, only those states that can subsidise or integrate their efforts are enabled to sustain an advanced arms production faculty. 5. As the emerging suppliers begin to introduce more and more of their wares into the market, the costs of research and development begin to soar in the same manner as those of the leading suppliers, thus urging them to become more export-oriented. 6. Participants in the system will be compelled to relinquish their comparative technological superiority in order to survive, thus narrowing the gap between the capabilities possessed by both the leading and the emerging suppliers.
A cold relationship: United States foreign policy towards South Africa, 1960 – 1990
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2016-12) Barnard, Tjaart; Liebenberg, J. C. R.; Van der Waag, I. J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School for Security and Africa Studies: Military History.
ENGLISH SUMMARY: The diplomatic relations between the United States (USA) and South Africa (SA) had its birth in 1799 with the establishing of a consulate in Cape Town. Over the next two centuries the political dealings between the two countries were at times limited to almost merely acknowledgement of the other’s existence, while at other times there was very close cooperation on almost all levels of state. Diplomatic ties were strengthened during the Second World War, the Berlin Airlift and the Korean War when Americans and South Africans shared the same dugouts, flew in the same air missions, and opposed the same enemy on both the tactical as well as ideological fronts. During the Cold War, SA aligned itself with the Western world in the hope of being seen as staunchly anti-communist in order to fit in with the Cold War rhetoric of the West. Washington was delighted to have an ally in Southern Africa who would ensure, or so Washington hoped, that communism did not get a foothold in this strategically placed part of the globe. Unfortunately for the USA, South Africa’s apartheid policies went against everything that the USA proclaimed to stand for – freedom and democracy. The USA eventually found itself in a precarious position of having to choose between its own national interest and moral obligations. From 1960-1990 the USA-SA relationship oscillated as various personalities (presidents, politicians etc) and world events (e.g. Sharpeville massacre, Vietnam War, Watergate etc) impacted on it to various degrees. The USA-SA alliance consisted of political, economic and military relations (including nuclear weapons technology) which at times had to be clandestine in order for the USA to not lose its international prestige as leader of the free world. With SA however forging ahead with its policies of segregation and destabilisation the USA had to increasingly act under a cloak of plausible deniability in all spheres of its relationship with SA. The Soviet Union (USSR) and its allies (mainly Cuba) conducted military operations in Southern Africa and provided training to African liberation movements with the intention of helping them to achieve freedom from the apartheid regime or to protect themselves from Pretoria’s aggression, as was the case with Angola. Soviet support for the liberation movements in SA and the rest of Southern Africa was a mutual concern for both SA and the USA. Consequently the USA supported South African adventurism into its neighbouring countries under the auspices of preventing the communist forces from achieving world domination. By the end of the Cold War, the USA could no longer turn a blind eye to SA’s occupation of Namibia or the incursions into Angola. With assistance from the USA and other Western allies Pretoria was able to, in the greatest of secrecy and to the amazement of the world, built several nuclear weapons. SA’s nuclear programme never really reached a level where it could threaten the larger nuclear powers but it was troublesome enough to move the USA to action. By means of coercion and diplomatic pressure the USA managed to convince Pretoria to abandon its quest for a nuclear arsenal.
A comparative multi-level investigation into research productivity of South African academics in different university contexts: An interpretivist approach
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2024-03) Holmes-Watts, Tania Natasha; Botha, Jan; Walters, Cyrill; Jansen, Jonathan; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Sciences. School of Science and Technology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The research mandate as a statutory requirement for public higher education institutions (HEIs) in South Africa (SA) are held in high regard and universities generally aspire to excel in this function. However, the disparities in research productivity and research performance in and among different institutional settings are not only frequently reported, but are also well documented in contemporary literature. The rationale for many of the disparities reflecting in the research performance specifically, among what is commonly labelled historically disadvantaged universities (HDUs) and historically advantaged universities (HAUs) are by and large, albeit not exclusively, attributed to the legacy of the apartheid era. Many apartheid remnants are understood to contribute to the vast social inequalities that exist within society which manifests in varied public groupings; commonly described as ‘the haves’ and ‘the have nots’. Understandably, since the dawn of a democratic regime, huge investments and countless interventions have been designed and implemented to pursue redress and equality within the South African national higher education sector. Nevertheless, 28 years after South Africa’s democratic liberation, a persistent narrative of ‘black failure’ and ‘white excellence’ exists; penetrating and reflecting in and through the research performance of different, public universities. This study investigated the mandated research function at two public universities within different institutional contexts, one, classified as an HDU and the other, classified as a HAU. The study was conducted from the perspective that university research is affected by a wide range of social forces and influences from various societal domains and interest groups, at multiple levels. The study aimed to gain insight into the conditions necessary to improve research performance despite university differences with respect to institutional historical backgrounds and present-day contextual realities. An interpretivist, comparative, case study design was used in this qualitative research enquiry. Multiple data collection and analysis techniques were employed together with the use of both primary and secondary data to determine the factors that influence research and research performance at South African public universities. Based on the research results, an intervention model was developed that depicts how a university’s research performance can be improved within any university setting as the necessary conditions to improve research can be cultivated by gaining a common understanding around the strategic diversion towards a research identity. Through decisive institutional action, a research-focus can be pursued and research interests can be navigated, aligned and protected to obtain mutual benefit, at various levels. Specific features, however serve as necessary requirements to enact the most effective and efficient advancement of a research mandate and agenda in any university context; which comprise willpower, person power, and the cultivation of an empowering, university context. The influencing factors on research and research performance at individual-, institutional- and systemic levels, as confirmed through this research are not mutually exclusive, but interrelated, multifaceted and very complex. University research requires earnest facilitation and firm oversight to bring forth an optimally, positive research progression in adherence to the research mandate bestowed upon public universities within the SA context.
Conceptualising a Personal Capacity Development Framework for Senior Management Service in the Department of Defence
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2022-12) Ledwaba, Ncediwe Vivian; Khoza, Lindiwe Mhakamuni; Bester, Piet Cornelius; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. Dept. of Educational Technology (EDUTECH)
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: rocesses aimed at military professionalism and public service professionalism through capacity development for senior management services (SMS) by means of education, training, and development (ETD) opportunities are imperative. Equally crucial is that these opportunities match the competencies required in the Department of Defence (DOD). This study aims to propose a DOD-specific development framework for personal capacity development of SMS through an analysis of the status of current governance. A qualitative research method was employed within the interpretivist paradigm with a resultant case design. Two custom designed questionnaires were used as primary sources of data. In addition, document analysis aimed to validate and triangulate the findings. The SMS in the DOD is a unit of analysis comprised of 270 SMS members, inclusive of Defence Act Personnel (DAP) and Public Service Act personnel (PSAP) designated in respective Services and Divisions. Purposive sampling was utilised to describe a phenomenon of which little is known from existing literature. All members of the SMS working in an HR environment were targeted to participate in the study. Seventeen participants responded voluntarily to the questionnaires. Furthermore, accountability documents of the DOD were sampled to determine the balance and consistency of the information. Areas in which they are detailed, and areas in which they are not, in relation to the research questions, were also investigated. Systems theory underpinned in DOD HR processes revealed the identified aspects thereof that add value to working together effectively, cooperatively. Findings revealed that capacity development is a continuous process that changes over time and which is influenced by three capacity levels for example, environmental, organisational, and individual, all of which interact mutually while impacting clearly the capacity development framework. Further studies are recommended towards understanding pedagogical enhancement related to the topic of research, and the incorporation of gender considerations into the curriculum of Professional Military Education (PME). The study is limited to DOD SMS members, even though it is understood that SMS is a universal institutional function. The proposed framework underpins the leadership, management, and governance processes that support learning and innovation commanded by strategists who embrace the African philosophy.
Conflict and peace in Burundi : exploring the cause(s) and nature of the conflict and prospects for peace
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2006-03) Mokoena, Benjamin P. O.; Breytenbach, W. J.; Neethling, T. G.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Military Sciences. School for Security and Africa Studies.
The purpose of this study is to investigate the cause(s), the nature, and characteristics of the conflict in Burundi, and 10 explore the conditions for sustainable peace and prospects for peace. The study is intended as a descriptive analysis of conflict and peace in a case study of Burundi. Since independence in 1962, intermittent conflict has characterised the state of Burundi. There are various accounts of the conflict, of which a popular, but superficial, relates an 'ethnic' conflict between Hutus and Tutsis. Equally disparate, is the prescription of solutions, the most dominant of which is power sharing based on ethnic quotas. The conflict is played out in the context of a failing state with sharp structural weaknesses. In addition, Burundi is mired in the wider instabilities of the Great Lakes region and the communicable effects thereof. The study breaks away from the tendency to analyse only the current (since 1993) bout of conflict. It is proposed that the various incidences of conflict mark different phases in the life cycle of a single conflict. The study also breaks away from the tendency to view the conflict as only opposing Hutus and Tutsis. These two tendencies in analysis generate serious distortions and omissions and may account for the wrong conclusions regarding the conflict in Burundi. Another contribution of the study resides with the proposal of the necessary and sufficient conditions for peace in Burundi. The contention brought forward by this study is that exclusion would appear to be the strongest theoretical approach to understand and describe the conflict in Burundi. In this regard, one particular contentious issue has remained constant throughout all the incidences of conflict involving different groups. The central issue has been about the political economy of Burundi that has systematically denied social mobility for the 'other'. The Burundian state is a repository of political, economic and social security where the 'other', defined in ethnic, intra-ethnic, clanic, regional, elitist (and historically dynastic) terms, is excluded and subordinated. Exclusion (and the consequent inequalities and injustices) is a source of acute grievance and motivation for collective violence. The resultant conflict has manifested in a struggle for the control of the state. Inter alia, the conflict has been pemicious, genocidal, protracted and intractable. The notion of institutionalised power sharing, based on ethnic quotas, has been put forward by the actors in the peace process as the fundamental principle guiding the search for a solution to the conflict in Burundi. The study concludes that power sharing may be necessary, as a confidence building measure, however, power Sharing in itself is not a sufficient condition for sustainable peace, and may well in fulure prove to be Ihe weakest link in the peace process. Inter alia, the conditions in Burundi are not amenable to institutionalised power sharing as such, e.g. the presence of an overwhelming majority, and deep socio-economic inequality along ethnic lines. Further, the current power sharing structure in Burundi tilts the democratic framework in favour of Tutsi participation and security, awards the Tutsi with a de facto veto power, fixes the ethnic balance of power, and thus perpetuates conflict generating Tutsi domination of the political economy of Burundi. This study proposes the reconstruction of the state (state building) as a necessary precondition for peace. II is concluded that political representation, economic opportunity and social mobility, must transcend social categories in Burundi. The continuing instabilities in the Great Lakes region are also a point of concem. Thus, peace in Burundi is also contingent upon greater efforts to curb the communicable conflicts in this region.
A critical analysis of the military strategic lessons learned from South Africa’s participation in the force intervention brigade in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2022-12) Pieterse, Johan Christiaan; Olivier, Laetitia; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School for Security and African Studies. Dept. of Political Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Security and Africa studies is a broad subject that is widely researched and documented, particularly the African battlespace. The nature and complexity of the African battlespace is a contemporary subject that requires in-depth research to understand, analyse and align future responses to situations of human insecurity, such as protracted armed conflict. The lingering conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a case in point. This study aims to provide a critical analysis of the strategic military lessons to be learned from the Republic of South Africa Battalion (RSA BATT) deployed under the auspices of the United Nations (UN) Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) as a troop-contributing country of the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB). This study looked at the contemporary approach to addressing human insecurity in the DRC from a military perspective by discussing the RSA BATT’s contribution from 2013 to date. This study found that the RSA BATT’s contribution is driven by the South African Army Infantry corps’ strategy and philosophy, which, regardless of numerous limitations, strives to provide a tailored combat-ready user system (CRUS) to meet operational requirements within a complex African battlespace. Accordingly, this study analysed the SA Army infantry corps’ strategy by focusing on the ends, ways andmeans available to the RSA BATT in the DRC and the possible risks posed in achieving operational requirements. Few studies have provided an in-depth analysis such as this academic contribution. Therefore, this study joins the pool of understanding of contemporary multilateral military-strategic thinkers, which provides the audience with a South African military viewpoint on addressing contemporary and future multinational peace support operations (PSO).
A critical analysis of the role of cooperatives in enhancing the socio-economic developments of Chris Hani District Municipality
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-12) Gotyi, Zamikhaya Gladwell; Theletsane, Kula Ishmael; Erasmus, W D
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The inclusion of cooperatives in the country’s major development frameworks is a declaration of the government’s confidence in their ability to enhance socio-economic development. Given the conviction, this study was conducted primarily to establish the extent to which cooperatives have enhanced the socio-economic development of poor communities; also to analyse the role of legislation in developing cooperatives; to identify factors that facilitate or impede the development of cooperatives, and lastly; to formulate a framework that can improve the functionality and sustainability of cooperatives. The Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) was used as the research site from which a diverse sample of 254 purposively selected state officials, cooperative members, and community members was assembled. Data from the sample was collected by focus groups and in-depth individual interviews. Effectively, the study has used data triangulation in the collection of data and interpretivist thematic content analysis to analyse it. The findings of the study established that cooperatives indeed contribute to socio-economic development. Poor communities use cooperatives for job creation, income generation, poverty alleviation, food security, crime reduction, and community empowerment. Apart from this positive finding, the study has also revealed that the legislation specifically promulgated to support cooperative development is poorly implemented. State institutions meant to implement these laws are reluctant to do so. Moreover, the study has identified a myriad of factors that impede the performance of cooperatives in socio-economic development. Together with poor implementation of the legislation, these factors debilitate the performance of cooperatives and result to their underdevelopment. Overall, this study has established that poor state support is the major factor that hinders the performance of cooperatives in socio-economic development. Based on this finding, the research recommends a comprehensive and integrated support programme as the conceptual framework by which state support should be provided to cooperatives to improve their performance in socio-economic development.
Developing a conceptual model for transformation at the South African Military Academy : the Ubuntu approach
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2007-12) Theletsane, Kula Ishmael; Jansen van Rensburg, J. L.; Walters, A. N.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Sciences. School for Defence Organisation and Resource Management.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The initial conceptual framework for transformation proposes the context (why), the content (what), and the process (how) as three dimensions of transformation that are always present. A distinction is made between external and internal triggers of transformation, and information is provided on the challenges posed by, among others, the knowledge society, globalisation, and changing market conditions that require companies to become learning organisations staffed by empowered knowledge workers. Literature study on transformation clearly shows that transformation brings about change. There are different models on transformation and this shows that there are different approaches to transformation. Ubuntu should be introduced as a way forward for the South African Military Academy (SAMA) to deal with transformation issues. Ubuntu is more concern about the wellbeing of the people and their morale during and after transformation has been implemented. Subsequently, a conceptual model for transformation is proposed in which generic elements of the “why”, “what”, and “how” dimensions are included. The SAMA model is developed to fit the scope of a conceptual model, and to be in line with what is generally proposed in the literature for organisations that want to transform in order to become market leaders and enhance long-term goals. Conclusions drawn from the ongoing SAMA transformation process are that its aims and principles are not in line with what appears to be required in creating an innovative learning organisation. With regard to the “how” of transformation, it is found that improvement is still needed to the processes to change attitudes, mindsets, and styles on the part of managers as well as employees that might inhibit empowerment and stifle creativity and innovation.
Developing a neo-regional transboundary marine protection policy framework between the navies of South Africa, Namibia, and Mozambique
(2022-04) Kwak, Gerrit Werner; Theletsane, Kula Ishmael; Jansen Van Rensburg, Johannes Lourens; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Military Science. School for Security and Africa Studies: Military History.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This dissertation posits the need for the development of a neo-regional transboundary marine protection policy framework (NTMPPF) for the littoral navies of South Africa, Namibia, and Mozambique. The study seeks to analyse the marine protection policy frameworks of the aforementioned littoral navies to consider reviewing the current Southern African Development Community (SADC) Maritime Security Strategy (MSS) and to develop a marine protection policy framework within the SADC Standing Maritime Committee (SMC) context as part of the African Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050. The concept of reforming littoral conservation policy and its utility value are debated within the maritime security and constabulary roles of Regional Economic Communities such as the SADC navies. The paradoxical relationship between the marine environment and the inherent combatant nature of navies are assessed because governments and academics need to find synergy towards improved maritime and marine stability. The use of grounded theory as the selected research design allowed the researcher to synthesise theories that are founded on three key performance areas, namely governance, interoperability, and capacity building, as the cornerstones of an NTMPPF. The qualitative research conducted in this dissertation provides proof that insufficient research exists to negate the potential utility of a possible NTMPPF for SADC navies. The research found patterns indicating the need to ensure political inclusivity, good ocean governance, effective organisational architecture, and a cross-sectoral approach in order to mitigate the perception of political and scientific ignorance towards an NTMPPF. The prominence of the South African Navy and the progress it has made towards marine protection from a policy point of view in contrast to policy constraints as experienced by Namibia and Mozambique is a regional challenge. The study found repeated proof that the SADC SMC is supportive of marine protection policy initiatives, but expect a structured and staggered approach over clear timelines. The reality of political, economic, and naval capabilities, as well as ecological differences between the three respective navies, present challenges that might compromise such a transboundary policy solution in support of a blue economy. This research therefore culminated in a proposed NTMPPF, as presented in Figure 6.4, which should address the identified gap in the transboundary marine protection policy environment of the SADC. The current political impetus between SADC SMC member states in terms of a renewed MSS approach provides a favourable platform to consider the integration of an NTMPPF. The NTMPPF is expected to be instrumental towards improved ocean governance and repositioning SADC navies in a more supportive role in the social security programmes of each respective country and the SADC.

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