What we do

Established in 2005, Mthente Research and Consulting Services is a boutique consultancy specialising in collecting and analysing quantitative and qualitative data to inform organisation’s decisions. We listen, learn and respond to our clients with bespoke, robust and pragmatic solutions. We offer results through innovative data analysis and research. We strive for professionalism and quality, with our core ethos being a guarantee of cost effective and high quality research and business solutions for our clients.

Stakeholder Intelligence

A robust & responsive stakeholder engagement model is critical…

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Monitoring & Evaluation and Impact Assessment

Understanding the success of any project or programme requires…

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Market & Consumer Insights

In a competitive economic climate, organisations cannot afford…

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Surveys & Analytics

Mthente’s specialist research team assists organisations with…

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Tailored business solutions through innovative research

Latest Publications

KwaZulu Natal Film Commission (KZNFC)

‘An assessment of progress made to transform the KZN film sector in the last seven years’

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KwaZulu Natal Film Commission (KZNFC)

‘Emerging Threats to Online Platforms: An analysis of the extent and prevalence of piracy and other illegal activities related to the selling of online content [in KZN].’
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VVOB

”Effectiveness of a gender-responsive pedagogy model in early childhood education in South Africa (2022)”

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Latest projects

IFC: Gender-Smart Climate Diagnostic South Africa

Mthente was commissioned by Ergon, on behalf of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, to conduct a gender and climate diagnostic survey for the private sector in South Africa. The study aimed to establish critical linkages between South Africa’s private sector priorities, climate ambitions, and gender goals. Its purpose was to identify actionable steps private sector companies can take to enhance women’s participation in the country’s climate transition, building on the long-term recommendations outlined in national policy documents. The diagnostic also involved in-depth analyses of key sectors with significant climate impact to explore gender disparities in employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership. The focus was on three high-priority sectors: solar energy, agribusiness (specifically fruit), and green hydrogen. A total of 90 surveys were conducted across these sectors, successfully meeting the target for this study.

SANRAL: Publications Research

The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) releases various publications intended to communicate its vision, foster understanding, and encourage positive behavioural change among its target audiences. To achieve the communication objectives outlined in SANRAL’s strategy, these publications must effectively reach the intended audiences and be perceived as engaging and valuable by them. In 2020, SANRAL initiated research to establish an empirical baseline for its reputation and to measure awareness, reach, and resonance for several of its publications. However, low awareness levels among the target audiences limited the study’s ability to fully assess how these publications are perceived. To address this gap, Mthente Research and Consulting Services was commissioned to build on the previous research and develop a more comprehensive understanding of the target audiences. This new study sought to identify who the target audiences are, what their communication needs entail, and how well SANRAL’s current publications align with these needs. The Mthente team completed 1867 in-person surveys conducted at various locations across South Africa, including petrol stations, home affairs offices, traffic departments, and bus stops.

Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB) : Research on Problem gambling in the Western Cape

Mthente Research and Consulting Services was commissioned by the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB) to conduct a comprehensive study on gambling and problem gambling in the Western Cape, South Africa. The aim of the research was to inform evidence-based policy development and enhance the effectiveness of the WCGRB’s responsible gambling initiatives.

This study provided an in-depth analysis of the province’s gambling landscape, examining demographic patterns, modes of gambling, and the socio-economic implications of gambling behaviours. Mthente employed a rigorous mixed methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative research techniques to offer a holistic understanding of the dynamics at play.

EWSETA: Post-Implementation Review of the WoL project

Mthente Research and Consulting Services was appointed by the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA) to conduct a post-implementation review of the War on Leaks (WoL) project. Launched in 2015 as a presidential initiative in response to South Africa’s pressing water conservation challenges, the WoL project aimed to address the inefficient use of water and reduce losses caused by physical leakages and commercial inefficiencies. The review provided EWSETA with critical insights into how well the project performed against its original objectives and offered valuable lessons to inform the planning and execution of future initiatives of a similar scale. To conduct the review, Mthente adopted a mixed methods approach grounded in the OECD/DAC evaluation criteria—relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, and sustainability. The study included a comprehensive document review, a quantitative survey with 200 project beneficiaries, and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders, including representatives from the implementing agent (Rand Water), project managers, and training providers.

Business Leadership South Africa: Member Perception Survey

Mthente Research and Consulting Services was appointed by Aprio on behalf of Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) to conduct a Member Perception Survey designed to support BLSA’s strategic goals. This research project aimed to assess the organisation’s current effectiveness, understand the experiences of its corporate members, and identify key areas for improvement. By engaging directly with members, the study provided valuable insights to help BLSA ensure that it remains relevant, responsive, and aligned with the issues that matter most to its stakeholders.

The survey focused on understanding whether BLSA is on the right track in terms of its strategic objectives and whether it is adequately addressing the most critical challenges faced by its members. It also explored members’ satisfaction with the organisation’s responsiveness, communication, and service offering. A key objective was to determine the value members feel they receive from their relationship with BLSA and what changes they believe could enhance that value.

Eastern Cape Gambling Board: Organisational Maturity Assessment

The Eastern Cape Gambling Board (ECGB) is responsible for regulating all gambling activities in the province per the Eastern Cape Gambling Act (Act 5 of 1997, as amended) and the National Gambling Act (Act 7 of 2004, as amended). This includes issuing and revoking gambling licenses, protecting the public from illegal gambling, and ensuring the exclusion of problem gamblers. The ECGB’s mission is to promote a socially responsible industry through regulation, licensing, and enforcement, ensuring the Eastern Cape gaming industry is honest and competitive, contributing to society, and providing excellent service to stakeholders.

In line with this mandate, the ECGB commissioned Mthente Research and Consulting Services to conduct an annual organisational maturity assessment, with the most recent one completed in the 2023/24 financial year. This assessment was based on the ECGB’s organisational maturity framework and an electronic tool, which evaluates the performance of its governance processes. The 2024/25 Organisational Maturity Assessment reaffirms the organisation’s strong and stable performance by consistently maintaining its maturity rating.

Review of Municipal Annual Financial Statements (AFS) Support Initiative in selected municipalities of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN)

Mthente Research and Consulting Services was appointed by the KZN Treasury to undertake an evaluation of the review of the Municipal Annual Financial Statement (AFS) support initiative. The principal objective of this study was to determine whether the AFS Reviews provided to delegated municipalities are being implemented as specified and to ascertain if there has been an improvement in the quality of AFS submitted and audits opinions expressed on the AFS submitted and audits opinions expressed on the AFS. The initiative, spearheaded by the KZN Provincial Treasury’s Municipal Accounting and Reporting Sub-Programme, aims to enhance financial governance and accountability within the regional municipalities by providing necessary support and monitoring their financial management practices. This support is crucial, particularly in ensuring compliance with the Generally Recognised Accounting Practice (GRAP) and the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).

Brand Equity and Reputation Survey

sefa, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa), is a South African organisation focused on supporting small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and cooperatives. sefa’s core function is to foster the establishment, development and growth of SMMEs and cooperatives. As such, sefa’s task is to provide SMMEs and cooperatives throughout South Africa with simple access to finance efficiently and sustainably by delivering wholesale and direct lending credit facilities or products; providing credit guarantees to SMMEs and cooperatives; supporting the institutional strengthening of financial intermediaries, so that they can effectively assist small and micro-enterprises and cooperatives; creating strategic partnerships with a range of institutions for sustainable small, micro- and cooperative enterprise development and support; monitoring the effectiveness and impact of sefa’s financing, credit guarantee and capacity development activities; and developing (through partnerships) innovative finance products, tools and channels, to speed up increased market participation in the provision of affordable finance.

ECSA Monitoring and Evaluation Function

The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) is a statutory body established by section 2 of the Engineering Profession Act, Act 46 of 2000 (EPA). ECSA’s primary role is to regulate the engineering profession in terms of the EPA. The primary functions include developing policies, setting standards that align with local and international benchmarks, and adhering to global instruments. This also encompasses the accreditation of engineering programs, registering individuals as professionals in different registration categories, maintaining their registration through Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and regulating the conduct of registered professionals. To fulfil its mandate, ECSA develops and reviews policy and standards, conducts feasibility studies, and carries out research for informed decision-making. Mthente Research and Consulting Services was commissioned by ECSA to develop an effective model for monitoring and evaluating its statutory functions. The objective of this project was to ensure that ECSA has robust tools and processes to measure the performance of its statutory functions, allowing for continuous improvement in how it governs the engineering profession, ensuring regulatory compliance, improved performance, and alignment with best practices locally and internationally.

ITC ILO: Strengthening the employment impact of South Africa’s industrial policies

Mthente Research and Consulting Services was commissioned by the International Training Centre of the International Labour Organisation to enhance the employment impact of South Africa’s industrial policies. The report aimed to evaluate the dtic’s Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) system, assessing data sources, compatibility with standards, and alignment with best practices. The evaluation focused on the automotive and Retail–Clothing, Textile, Footwear, and Leather sectors through a desktop review and online discussions with dtic personnel, using Otundo’s twelve components for effective M&E systems and the ILO evaluability review.

To improve the M&E system, a technical workshop was conducted to validate the appraisal and collaboratively develop a roadmap involving dtic staff and key stakeholders from the Department of Employment and Labour and Productivity SA

Developing a community engagement plan for Biovac

Mthente Research and Consulting Services was engaged by Biovac to develop a comprehensive Stakeholder Engagement Plan in line with the World Bank Group’s International Finance Corporation (IFC) guidelines. The plan, essential to Biovac’s funding agreement, emphasised community involvement and aimed to address concerns raised by local residents regarding Biovac’s operations. Through initial interviews and public engagement sessions, Mthente identified key stakeholders, developed strategies for transparent communication, and established a grievance mechanism. The SEP was tailored to ensure ongoing, meaningful engagement with the community as Biovac advances its vaccine manufacturing capabilities in Cape Town

NACS Implementation Plan and Monitoring Framework

Mthente Research and Consulting Services has been tasked with aiding the NACAC’s Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting, and Learning (MERL) workstream in revising the NACS implementation framework and finalising the associated implementation plan and monitoring framework. The strategy focuses on promoting citizen participation, ethical leadership, professional governance, the protection of vulnerable groups, and strengthening anti-corruption agencies. It recognises the intricate nature of corruption, emphasising the need for comprehensive implementation structures and monitoring to effectively address underlying causes rather than just symptoms. Mthente’s work was guided by input from the technical committee and key stakeholders

Outcome Evaluation of two SA Tourism Implementation Programmes

South African Tourism (SA Tourism) is the official marketing agency responsible for promoting tourism on behalf of the South African government. It is legally constituted under the Tourism Act (No. 3 of 2014), with the mandate to position South Africa as a premier travel and business events destination. SA Tourism’s mission includes “marketing South Africa both internationally and domestically to increase the volume of tourists and the value they add to the economy”. To achieve these objectives, SA Tourism implements targeted marketing initiatives designed to promote the country’s diverse tourism offerings, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to job creation. In FY23/24, SA Tourism launched several strategic campaigns, including the Global Brand Campaign (Live Again Campaign) and three localised global tourism campaigns, namely, the Hugh Masekela Campaign; the Easter Gospel Celebrations Campaign; and the Siya Kolisi Campaign.

Challenges, business opportunities, and support required by MSMEs and Co-operatives in the national priority sectors

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Co-operatives play a crucial role in economic and sustainable development through their significant contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment in the country. In 2022, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) projected that MSMEs and Co-operatives account for more than 90% of all formal businesses in South Africa, employ 50% to 60% of the labour force, and contribute 34% to the country’s GDP. There is a clear level of participation by MSMEs and Co-operatives in the national priority sectors and there are challenges and opportunities for them to competitively participate. Though there is some information on the challenges and opportunities which MSMEs and Co-operatives face, the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) has specific data needs for support interventions and programmes for MSMEs and Co-operatives in the country’s economic priority sectors. The Department is responsible for ensuring increased contribution by MSMEs in priority sectors to meaningfully input to the economy.

Competition Commission: Micro-assessment of four development funds

The Competition Commission of South Africa (CCSA) is a statutory body established to regulate competition in the country. It is responsible for investigating and evaluating restrictive business practices, abuse of dominant positions, mergers, and conducting market inquiries. CCSA also engages in advocacy to promote equity and efficiency in the South African economy. As a public entity, CCSA operates in compliance with the Public Finance Management Act and the Constitution of South Africa. Currently, CCSA seeks a qualified service provider to conduct a telephonic survey to assess the impact of four development funds it created between 2015 and 2020 in the agricultural sector.

Assessing the Landscape of Small Businesses and Cooperatives in South Africa: A Three-Year Longitudinal Study (2021-2023)

Mthente conducted a three-year study of small businesses in South Africa to evaluate government programmes and assess their performance. The study found the sector was trying to stabilise post-COVID but was facing challenges, including financing and access to support. Networks, mentors, diversification, and digitization were seen as keys to long-term success.

National Lotteries Commission (NLC): Evaluation of the Small grants (2018-2022)

The Legislative mandate of the NLC includes inviting applications from registered organisations to apply for grants (small, medium and large) in support of worthy good causes. Non-profit entities working for the public good are eligible for funding from the National Lotteries Commission. Mthente was commissioned by the NLC to undertake an evaluation of the small grants disbursed over the past five years (2018-2022). The study examined the efficiency of the small grant category in enabling first-time and emerging applicants to access funding, the impact of the funding on the objectives of grantees, the sustainability of grantees and the positive or negative unintended consequences for grantees and the NLC. Through comprehensive surveys with NLC grantees during the period in question and in-depth interviews with various NLC implementers, Mthente produced a comprehensive evaluation report that met the intended objectives. Overall, the study provided the NLC with a better understanding of the function and value of small grants in supporting emerging / grassroots organisations, and how this contributed to NLC’s funding objectives.

Valued Citizens Initiative: Outcome evaluation of the iSIQALO II programme

Mthente was commissioned by the Embassy of France in South Africa to conduct an outcome evaluation of the Valued Citizens Initiative, iSIQALO II programme ‘Strengthening the Capacity of Social Work Professionals to Help Children and the Youth Manage their Sexuality and Deal with Vulnerability Factors to Prevent Unintended Early Pregnancy in South Africa and Malawi”. The purpose of this evaluation was to assess the relevance and effectiveness of the iSIQALO II Professional Development Programme to empower social service professionals in Malawi and South Africa, to help children and the youth manage their sexuality and deal with vulnerability factors exposing them to unintended early pregnancy. Through a baseline and endline assessment that consisted of in-person fieldwork in South Africa and Malawi, pre and post-surveys with social service professionals enrolled in the training, interviews with key implementers, teachers, parents and youth themselves were completed to be able to produce a baseline and endline report that met the intended objectives of the study.

South African Tourism Conducts Annual Stakeholder Engagement Survey: 2024 Corporate Reputation Index

Mthente conducted the annual stakeholder engagement survey for South African Tourism to better understand their needs and priorities, with a focus evolving over the years. The primary goal is to assess stakeholder satisfaction with SA Tourism’s initiatives, ensuring consistency with past studies. This commitment helps SA Tourism tailor its efforts to meet the needs of the tourism industry in South Africa.

MQA

The Mining Qualification Authority (MQA) is regarded as a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) operating in the Mining and Minerals Sector (MMS) in South Africa. In terms of the National Skills Development Plan, SETA’s remain an authoritative voice in the labour market and are experts in their respective sectors. Thus, SETAs are required to undertake sector and nationally commissioned research and data analysis to inform skills planning and interventions. The MQA partnered with Mthente to undertake research to understand the relationship between scarce and critical skills and the training interventions that are implemented in the MMS.

ORGANISATIONAL CULTURE SURVEY

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is a Schedule 3A Public Entity that formally came into existence on 03 December 2010 in terms of the Public Finance Management Act (No.1 of 1999 as amended by Act 29 of 1999).

One of the objectives of the SANSA Act (No.36 of 2008), is to support the creation of a work environment that is conducive for productivity. As such, SANSA appointed Mthente Research and Consulting Services to develop and administer an Employee Engagement Survey on its behalf. The project was aimed at informing management of their employees’ experiences and thoughts about SANSA’s overall organisational culture. Through an online/telephonic survey approach, Mthente surveyed all SANSA’s employees on a range of dimensions that encompass organisational culture. The findings of this research will allow SANSA to take the necessary action to create a healthy work environment for all employees.

RBIDZ STAKEHOLDER SATISFACTION SURVEY

Mthente Research was commissioned by the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) to conduct a stakeholder perception, satisfaction, and brand visibility survey. The insights of the study was to bring forth invaluable insights, serving as a keystone for RBIDZ to not only affirm its strategic pursuits but to also refine its relationship with stakeholders, enhance brand recognition, and solidify its position as a lodestar for sustainable industrial and socio-economic development within the region and beyond.

As part of this research Mthente conducted a desktop review of documents provided by the RBIDZ, engaged the RBIDZ team in a stakeholder mapping exercise to identify key stakeholders to participate on the study, developed the survey and interview tools guided from previous surveys, achieved a survey sample of 119 respondents and 16 in-depth interviews. Mthente used descriptive analysis, inferential statistics and data weighting and representation to present the key findings in a report with recommendations to the RBIDZ. Concluding that the study’s objectives were effectively met, illustrating that the assessment of stakeholders’ general perception of the RBIDZ has demonstrated a mainly favourable view.

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RBIDZ CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY

Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) is a purpose-built and secure industrial estate on the North-eastern coast of KwaZulu-Natal. It is an integral part of the Government’s macro-economic policy to develop South Africa’s manufacturing sector by encouraging investments in export-orientated manufacturing industries, centered on beneficiation of the country’s natural resources, and thereby creating employment opportunities. The RBIDZ appointed Mthente to conduct the customer satisfaction survey that has been used as an annual benchmarking exercise to identify the effectiveness and direction of the RBIDZ’s Investor Retention and Expansion initiatives. The outcome of this survey was to assess investors general perception of the RBIDZ, their view on the RBIDZ response to its mandate, customer service experience and suggestions for improvement.

Mthente conducted a desktop review of all documents received by the RBIDZ, updated the survey tool, conducted 27 investor surveys, analysed the data using graphs, figures and thematic analysis for open-ended questions. The triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data from the surveys allowed for comprehensive and credible findings that identify gaps and implementation areas of improvement, presented to the RBIDZ to be addressed. Overall, the investors were satisfied with the RBIDZ customer service and response to its mandate.

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IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE SSF TRAINING PROGRAMME

Oceana commissioned Mthente Research and Consulting Services to conduct an impartial evaluation of the training programme on “cooperative sense” for Small-Scale Fishers (SSFs), with a focus on the intervention’s outcomes on SSF communities and whether the programme can be credited to the SSF training programme.

The Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) training programme, established by the Oceana Maritime Academy (OMA) in collaboration with the Department of Environment, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), DYNA Training, and National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI). The programme aims to empower small-scale fishers (SSFs) with a “Cooperative Sense” to make their cooperatives work effectively, profitably, and equitably.

SONKE GENDER JUSTICE: EMPLOYEE CULTURE SURVEY

Sonke Gender Justice is a non-partisan, non-profit organisation, that works for just, democratic societies and equitable, healthy relationships between men, women, and young people. Sonke officially appointed Mthente Research and Consulting Services to conduct an organisational culture survey on its behalf. The primary objective of the project was aimed at informing management of Sonke employees’ experiences and thoughts about Sonke’s organisational culture. This is so that Sonke can ensure action is taken to create a healthy work environment for all employees. Through an online-based survey, Mthente assessed and reported on various aspects, including job satisfaction, work environment, and leadership style, with the primary objective of identifying opportunities for improvement and fostering a positive work environment. The findings from the survey allowed Sonke to take targeted actions based on the recommendations, thereby enhancing the overall employee experience.

AKINA MAMA wa AFRIKA: EMPLOYEE CULTURE SURVEY

Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), a feminist Pan-African leadership development organisation appointed Mthente to conduct an organisational culture survey. The survey aimed to provide insights into employees’ experiences and perspectives on the prevailing organisational culture. AMwA, based in Uganda, focuses on women’s empowerment, economic justice, and violence against women. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, AMwA transitioned to a virtual work environment. The survey evaluated various dimensions of job satisfaction, including the work environment and leadership style. The aim was to pinpoint areas for improvement and enhance the overall employee experience.

THUNGELA: STAKEHOLDER PERCEPTION RESEARCH

The King IV report speaks to stakeholder relationships and the need for listed businesses to adopt a stakeholder-inclusive approach that balances the needs, interests, and expectations of material stakeholders in the best interests of the organisation. Thungela, a leading producer and exporter of high-quality, low-cost thermal coal in South Africa’s mining industry, works with several stakeholders, key to their business. Though Thungela sites conduct manual quarterly community stakeholder perception surveys in their Community Engagement Forums (CEF) measuring the level of trust in the mine, the level of support (if the community supports the mine), and the level of fairness (if the mine listens and responds to community concerns), Thungela must have a broader view of its stakeholders and host communities’ perceptions of the business. Thungela therefore wished to conduct a third-party perception survey to get a better understanding of its broader stakeholder base’s perceptions of Thungela and its relationship with its stakeholders. As a result, Mthente was appointed to conduct the research. The overall objective of the survey was to study, analyse and report on the perception of a range of stakeholders, including government stakeholders, municipalities, unions, journalists, traditional authorities, and members of the various host communities.

ASSUPOL COMMUNITY TRUST RAPID COMPETENCY AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

In a landscape of rising competitive and regulatory pressures, oversight from an effective board of trustees goes a long way in paving the path to success. Under Principle 9 of the King IV, it is noted that a board should evaluate its performance at least every two years, with opportunities in between to consider, reflect on and discuss performance. Through regular evaluations, the board as a whole, sub-committees, and individual Trustees can improve their leadership, communication, processes, teamwork, sense of accountability, and performance culture. As such, the opportunity to participate in a performance evaluation is a practice that the best of boards engages in, to identify key strengths and areas for improvement.

The term of office for the current Trustees of Assupol Community Trust ends at the end of August 2023. Following the end of the term, the appointed recruiter is required to re-appoint or source a new pool of trustees who possess the relevant knowledge and competencies to fulfill the mandate of the Trust. As such, the need for a rapid competency and performance assessment was required, to guide the appointed recruiter in its decision and sourcing of trustees for the subsequent term of office. Mthente was commissioned to carry out the competency and performance assessment. The assessment took the form of 360-degree evaluation surveys, self-administered through an online platform.

LEVY-EXEMPT ORGANISATIONS AND SMALL AND EMERGING BUSINESSES RELEVANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY EVALUATION STUDY 2021/22

At the start of 2023, Mthente Research and Consulting Services was commissioned by the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) to provide professional services in an evaluation project. The project was concerned with evaluating the interventions provided to levy-exempt organisations (LEOs) and Small and Emerging Businesses (SMEs) across the years of 2021 to 2022. Mthente utilized an empirical research design, with a mixed-methods research approach to evaluate the relevance and sustainability of the interventions received by the LEOs and SMEs. During the project, Mthente reviewed and amended pre-existing instruments before commencing the data collection phase. Overall, a total of 206 surveys were conducted with directors of LEOs and SME owners. Furthermore, 4 participants from each of these categories participated in in-depth interviews. Quantitative data underwent statistical analysis via SPSS, and qualitative data was analysed thematically. The results and findings indicated that the HWSETA’s funding interventions have successfully achieved their intended objectives. As such, the HWSETA’s interventions were deemed to be relevant and sustainable. The process of the evaluation project was executed in a professional and ethical manner. In July 2023, the project concluded with Mthente’s submission of a thorough and graphic research report.

HWSETA TRACK AND TRACER STUDY

The Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) is one of 21 Sector Education Training Authorities (SETA) established under the Skills Development Act No. 97 of 1998. HWSETA is a key role in transforming the South African economy by empowering workers to be agents of change within their subsectors. The HWSETA impact statement aims to improve the skills of 80% of the workforce in the health and welfare sector by 2030, resulting in higher productivity and career progression.

Mthente conducted a track and tracer study to assess employed learner pathways and the outcomes of HWSETA-funded learning programs against the strategic intent of 2020-2025, contributing to the improvement of skills for 50% of the South African workforce.

SAT MID-TERM ASSESSMENT OF 5 YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN

Mthente Research and Consulting Services was appointed by South African Tourism to conduct the Mid-Term Assessment to assess the first two and a half years of implementation of their Five-Year Strategic Plan 2020 – 2025. The objective of the mid-term progress report was to; determine the extent to which South African Tourism has succeeded in achieving each of the strategic outcome-oriented goals and objectives set at the beginning of the five-year period, undertake an analysis of SA Tourism’s Five-Year Strategic Plan in relation to the organisation’s performance, provide an analysis of the global changes that have implications for the organisation’s work for the remainder of the five-year term and provide recommendations on amendments to the Five-Year Strategic Plan for the remaining period.

SAT BRAND INDEX STUDY

SA Tourism conducted the first stakeholder satisfaction survey in 2017 and a follow-up in 2019 to assess stakeholders’ levels of awareness of SA Tourism’s goals, levels of satisfaction with engagement initiatives at the time and identified platforms preferred by stakeholders. In 2021 the Stakeholder Satisfaction Survey was re-assessed to determine the awareness and satisfaction levels of key stakeholders taking the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery plan into account and to determine the most pertinent communication channels to enhance coordination and collaboration. Mthente has been commissioned by SA Tourism to conduct a stakeholder engagement survey for 2022/23 FY and 2023/24 FY which will allow for comparability with previous studies. It is our understanding that the study aims to assess the satisfaction of stakeholders with initiatives by Tourism.

CGS STAFF SATISFACTION SURVEY

Mthente Research and Consulting Services (Pty) Ltd has been commissioned by Council for Geoscience (CGS) to conduct a staff satisfaction survey to be able to provide insights on their level of satisfaction with CGS. This research adopted a quantitative research approach to gather information from the CGS staff to gauge their perception and satisfaction level with the CGS. The study made use of an online-based self-administered questionnaire for the staff to collect data on their satisfaction. A total of 295 completed surveys (250 online completed and 45 in-person/telephonic completed) formed part of the analysis. This research study was carried out in compliance with the ethical principles of voluntary participation and maintaining confidentiality and anonymity.

EMERGING THREATS TO THE ONLINE PLATFORMS: AN ANALYSIS OF THE EXTENT AND PREVALENCE OF PIRACY AND OTHER ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES RELATED TO THE SELLING OF ONLINE CONTENT [IN KZN]

This study provided an overview of piracy as a global phenomenon and a possible threat to South Africa and KwaZulu-Natal online platforms. An analysis of the extent and prevalence of piracy and other illegal activities related to selling online content in KwaZulu-Natal is discussed from a broad overview of online piracy. The study recommends that copyright laws in South Africa should be clearer and should extend to education and training platforms. Cultivation of digital environment and access to affordable internet access. Lastly, better law enforcement structures, including a specific police unit that deals with copyright infringement of creative industry outputs like film, should be implemented. This recommendation is extended to include specific punishable actions that policy and law enforcement should implement to curb piracy.

AN ASSESSMENT OF PROGRESS MADE TO TRANSFORM THE KZN FILM SECTOR IN THE LAST SEVEN YEARS

This report presents the key findings of a study to assess progress made to transform the KZN film industry in the last seven years. Data collected for this research showed government stakeholders indicating that municipalities need in-depth film industry knowledge to respond to the industry development needs in their specific District Municipalities. KZN-based businesses highlighted the significant role of the film commission in providing business opportunities which contribute over 60% of their annual turnover. The business survey also showed an agreement regarding fronting being a criminal act which must be prevented due to its impact in slowing down transformation by misrepresenting the extent to which businesses are B-BBEE compliant. All businesses indicated that they are transformed because they work with youth, placing them in key positions; some stated that they provide mentorship to youth, women and people living with a disability. The majority of those who responded amongst filmmakers have experienced growth in their companies through being awarded funding for development and production in the past seven years. However, some expressed the negative impact of lengthy turnaround times from KZNFilm after application, while others expressed that obtaining funding from KZNFilm remains challenging.

AN ANALYSIS OF THE PERFORMANCE OF THE KZNFilm FUNDED PROJECTS BETWEEN 2014 AND 2021.

This report presents the key findings of a study conducted to analyse the performance of the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission (KZNFilm) funded projects between 2014 and 2021. The transformation imperative to promote an economic structure that redresses the unjust practices of the past is recommended as key for better performance of KZNFilm and KZN-based productions. Future transformation programmes should work towards providing quality assurance processes, where there is a questionnaire to evaluate the programmes and to have graduates provide details of how the process has sharpened their skills. Secondly, skills labour to support potential/ prospective film studios with a prepared workforce from the province should be expanded to focus on the art department, set construction, set dressing, sound technology, and lighting technology. Training and development for the KZNFilm business on negotiating the purchase of film rights for intellectual property to increase ancillary rights for KZN-based films should be key for development. KZNFilm should increase monitoring and evaluation processes to understand the different phases of production and the revenue plans submitted for funding applications, and lastly, Festivals and Markets should be open to measuring their tangible impact, for example, new distribution partnerships for films, access to further international and national funding, and commission agreements.

NHBRC PERCEPTION SURVEY

Mthente Research and Consulting Services (Pty) Ltd was commissioned by NHBRC to conduct a perception and satisfaction level survey amongst the NHBRC internal and external stakeholders to determine a benchmark measurement on current stakeholder perceptions on the NHBRC products and services provided as the Regulator to the homebuilding sector. This research adopted a quantitative research approach to gather information from both the internal and external NHBRC stakeholders in order to gauge their perception and satisfaction level with the NHBRC. The study made use of an online-based self-administered questionnaire for both stakeholder groups to collect data on their satisfaction and perception level. A total of 284 completed surveys (62 internal stakeholders and 222 external stakeholders) formed part of the analysis. Areas for improvement were identified and actioned by the NHBRC.

MQA RESEARCH ON SCARE AND CRITICAL SKILLS IN 8 MINING SUBSECTORS

ZENEX FOUNDATION STAKEHOLDER REVIEW

The Zenex Foundation is known as an independent education grant-maker with a focus on improving teaching and learning outcomes in language and mathematics in South Africa. The Foundation’s mission is to strengthen the education system through delivering evidence-based grant-making, playing a thought leadership role, and building strong partnerships with all stakeholders, including government, donors, implementing agencies, and researchers. To assist in enhancing their current grant-making practices the Foundation commissioned Mthente Research and Consulting Services to conduct a Stakeholder review. The review aimed to provide the Zenex Foundation’s partners and stakeholders an opportunity to provide feedback on their experiences of the organization and gain learnings of how this process can be improved.

ARMSCOR STAKEHOLDER SURVEY

Armscor has four strategic outputs: Revenue generation, cost management, efficient and effective delivery, and stakeholder management. The research was conducted to support these objectives and make Armscor a more robust and more effective organisation. Mthente was commissioned to measure the external stakeholder’s perception of Armscor’s services. This survey is conducted biennially to assess the effectiveness of stakeholder management processes and functions.

SANEDI EMPLOYEE CULTURE SURVEY

Mthente Research and Consulting Services was commissioned by SANEDI to conduct an employee cultural survey for the 2022/23 financial year. SANEDI understands that employees are able to perform at their best level as they feel comfortable in the workplace. The purpose of the employee cultural survey was to measure employee perception and understand employees’ experiences and thoughts about the organisation.

Overall, at least 70% of employees have positive feedback on the organisational culture at SANEDI. Actionable recommendations were provided to SANEDI on where the organisation could focus to improve its company culture and the satisfaction of employees.

UNIVERSITY OF CORNELL

Cornell University is conducting a multi-sited survey and longitudinal interview project with Ghanaian, Kenyan, and South African high school students. The goal of the project is to conduct comparative research to assess how resource inequality arising before high school graduation affects the transition to adulthood and whether health and wellness outcomes are tied to educational, employment, and migration outcomes. The main research question that this study wishes to answer is ‘How do resource inequalities shape initial labor market outcomes of Ghanaian, Kenyan, and South African youths, and are individuals with better initial labor market outcomes less likely to migrate and more likely to retain better self-reported health and wellness?’

Mthente Research and Consulting Services (Pty) was commissioned to collect data from high school students (Grade 11) in South Africa on behalf of Cornell University. The data is being collected from 18 schools across South Africa by a team of professional and trained fieldworkers.

APCOF: DEVELOPING A MONITORING FRAMEWORK

Mthente was commissioned by The African Policing Civilian Oversight Forum (APCOF) to monitoring framework for use by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) to systematically track the implementation of its recommendations to South African Police Service (SAPS) related to xenophobic violence and the policing of non-nationals (migrants, immigrants, foreign nationals). This assignment was part of a broader EU-supported APCOF project to promote equitable and non-discriminatory policing services in South Africa by developing the capacity of SAPS to prevent, detect and respond to racist and xenophobic violence and hate crimes. This study was in response to both the recommendations of APCOF’s report as well as the SAHRC’s observations and recommendations about its mandate.

In 2022, the APCOF published research on the role of external police oversight mechanisms in monitoring the response by the SAPS to xenophobic violence and related hate crimes. This research found that despite significant investment by the SAHRC in understanding and making recommendations to address policing deficits in this area, implementation of those recommendations by SAPS and others has been weak. Mthente’s monitoring framework aims to enable the tracking of the implementation of recommendations by SAHRC, which will ensure that SAPS is able to strengthen its ability to detect, prevent and respond to xenophobic violence and hate crimes.

PWC: Insights into the I4.0 maturity of SA Manufacturing

The manufacturing sector is the fourth largest sector in South Africa (SA) and Smart Manufacturing has become the direction of development. The development of I4.0 tools is only one component of the entire system. For manufacturing sectors to leverage the value, they need teams who understand the data to be able to translate it into findings that would benefit them. Digitalisation has created the possibility to adopt the progression of information and communication technologies within a limited period, which ultimately increases operational efficacy and sustainability. One of the key motivating factors to incorporate I4.0 in the manufacturing sector is the ability to increase quality, flexibility, performance, and overall competitiveness. Through the incorporation of I4.0, a manufacturer can increase innovation and decrease the cost of production which leads to effective Manufacturing Strategy Outputs (MSOs).

Through this research, we aimed to understand the I4.0 maturity of the SA manufacturing sector by gaining an intimate understanding of the value proposition of I4.0 in the various sectors. Furthermore, the research aimed to understand how adopting digital operations can materially affect the success or failure of a manufacturing organisation, how the adoption affects competitiveness/efficiencies with the overall aim of educating the SA industry on the gaps and ‘the art of the possible’ amongst their peers. The study took the form of in-depth, qualitative interviews with senior leaders across nine manufacturing sectors. The interviews were conducted by a team of highly trained qualitative interviewers.

RBIDZ- Customer Satisfaction Survey

Mthente was commissioned by RBIDZ to assess the satisfaction of customers/investors from the different sectors. The research aimed to provide an understanding of RBIDZ customer interactions, to better understand how they can improve on their customer interactions. In terms of the Special Economic Zone Act (Act No. 16 of 2014), the purpose of RBIDZ, and the Special Economic Zones are: To promote and attract both domestic and foreign direct investments to boost the economy of the country which in turn creates employment opportunities as well as develop skills; Facilitate the creation of an industrial complex, having a strategic national economic advantage for targeted investments and industries in the manufacturing sector and tradable services; Develop infrastructure required to support the development of targeted industrial activities, Provide the location for the establishment of targeted investments; Enable the beneficiation of mineral and natural resources;

DSBD- Longitudinal Study on SMMEs and Co-Operatives in South Africa

The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) appointed Mthente to conduct a longitudinal study on Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) and co-operatives in South Africa. The study will run from 2021 to 2024 and is the first study of its kind conducted by the DSBD. The aim of this study is to gather consistent data on SMMEs and co-operatives so as to assess the impact of government support programmes aimed at SMMEs and co-operatives, to uncover the inhibitors and opportunities to growth for the small business sector in the country, and to assess the performance of the sector in the economy with a particular focus on the impact of COVID-19. Most importantly, the study is intended to create a longitudinal profile of the sector through consistent measurement of key variables such as turnover, employment and growth.

ELECTRUM- Value Added Services Report

Electrum is a South African fintech company that uses modern technology to make transactions easier. Electrum appointed Mthente to conduct research on Value-Added Services (VAS) in South Africa, with the primary objective of investigating the VAS landscape, understanding the current and future landscape of VAS in the country, and develop recommendations for building a VAS business for Electrum’s clients.

In the context of this study, VAS is defined as providing a way for banking, retail and mobile network operator (MNO) customers to purchase digital products such as airtime and data, lottery tickets, conduct money transfers and pay bills. The total market value for VAS transactions is estimated at a little over R565 billion per year, with retailers facilitating the largest number of transactions.

SAVE THE CHILDREN SA- Market analysis study

Mthente Research and Consulting Services (Pty) Ltd (Mthente) was appointed to conduct a market analysis study commissioned by Save The Children South Africa (SCSA). SCSA through its Children on the Move Project (COM) focuses on children and youth considered highly vulnerable and at-risk due to the effects of migration. These are mainly unaccompanied and separated migrant children of different migratory categories such as asylum seekers, refugees, trafficked smuggled children, and economic migrants amongst others.

According to Stats SA (2019), the provincial estimates show that while Gauteng Province has a migrant population of (25.8%), both Limpopo Province and Eastern Cape have a proportion of (33.3%) of migrants younger than 15 years old.

VVOB- Testing the effectiveness of the GRP4ECE model

Previous literature argues that proper timing of interventions in early childhood education is indispensable to tackle gender stereotypes and foster gender equity. However, we also know that in South Africa, as in many other countries, most Early Childhood Development (ECD) programming tends to be gender-blind rather than gender-sensitive and responsive and there is a gap in interventions to address this. To tackle this, the international organization VVOB – education for development (VVOB), the South African Department of Basic Education (DBE) and South African Council of Educators (SACE) have partnered in a pilot project on Gender-Responsive Pedagogy for Early Childhood Education (GRP4ECE) that ran over a period of two years (2020/2021). VVOB and the DBE collaborated to develop a practical gender-responsive pedagogy for early childhood education that provides an opportunity to proactively bridge this gap for all young children.

FEM Education Foundation NPC (FEMEF): a longitudinal impact programme evaluation of the Columba Leadership Programme

Mthente Research and Consulting Services (Pty) Ltd successfully bid for an evaluation commission by the FEM Education Foundation NPC (FEMEF) for a longitudinal impact programme evaluation of the Columba Leadership Programme.

The purpose of this evaluation is to assess the baseline outcomes in year 1 and provide a progress evaluation of the outcomes against the baseline at the end of year 2 and 3, as well as provide a detailed endline asssessment of the educational impacts against the baseline in year 4. This evaluation will include two components. Firstly, a desktop analysis of all existing evaluations conducted on Columba to date and a review of research conducted on similar interventions. Secondly, a longitudinal assessment of the outcomes and impact of the Columba Leadership program in accordance with its theory of change. A classical pre-post and group-comparison will be used to draw conclusions on progress within the control group and as compared to the treatment group.

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Opinion Poll

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“Mthente’s energy, commitment and high-quality work provided our team with accurate and timely information to guide program changes and insightful recommendations for post-pilot adjustments to enhance impact.

Mthente’s targeted interviews and focus group discussions also helped to capture nuanced 21c skill growth and the unique impact of the program on confidence and grit.”

Michelle Malecki, Programme Management Officer, World Vision.