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Africa capacity development climate change adaptation community-based disaster risk reduction development disaster management cycle disaster recovery disaster risk assessment disaster risk governance disaster risk reduction dolomite Eden district hybrid peace operations methodology participatory planning policy private sector scenario social vulnerability South Africa systems theory transdisciplinarity Views from the Frontline women
2015 |
Book Chapters |
van Niekerk, Dewald Disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation: towards community resilience Book Chapter Du Plessis, A (Ed.): South African Environmental Law: The Governing Function of Local Government, Juta, Kenwyn, 2015. Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, South Africa @inbook{vanNiekerk2015, title = {Disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation: towards community resilience}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, editor = {Du Plessis, A.}, year = {2015}, date = {2015-05-15}, booktitle = {South African Environmental Law: The Governing Function of Local Government}, publisher = {Juta}, address = {Kenwyn}, abstract = {This chapter attempts to put the disaster risk reduction discourse in South Africa into an environment management and climate adaptation perspective. The relevance of disaster risk reduction within the local government and the environmental context of South Africa will be discussed. The objectives of disaster risk reduction policies and laws will be emphasised and the legal requirement of local government for disaster risk reduction will enjoy attention. This chapter will draw on existing research on disaster risk reduction within the local sphere of the South African Government and the current state of compliance will be discussed. However, a discussion on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation will be incomplete if an understanding of the basic concept of disaster is not first established.}, keywords = {climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, South Africa}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {inbook} } This chapter attempts to put the disaster risk reduction discourse in South Africa into an environment management and climate adaptation perspective. The relevance of disaster risk reduction within the local government and the environmental context of South Africa will be discussed. The objectives of disaster risk reduction policies and laws will be emphasised and the legal requirement of local government for disaster risk reduction will enjoy attention. This chapter will draw on existing research on disaster risk reduction within the local sphere of the South African Government and the current state of compliance will be discussed. However, a discussion on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation will be incomplete if an understanding of the basic concept of disaster is not first established. |
Becker, Per ; van Niekerk, Dewald Developing Sustainable Capacity for Disaster Risk Reduction in Southern Africa Book Chapter Collins A.E., Jones Manyena S B S; Jayawickrama, J (Ed.): Hazards, Risks, and Disasters in Society, Chapter 5, pp. 63-78, Elsevier Inc., Amsterdam, 2015. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: capacity development, disaster risk reduction @inbook{Becker:2015wk, title = {Developing Sustainable Capacity for Disaster Risk Reduction in Southern Africa}, author = {Becker, Per and van Niekerk, Dewald}, editor = {Collins, A.E., Jones, S., Manyena, B.S. And Jayawickrama, J.}, doi = {10.1016/B978-0-12-396451-9.00005-6}, year = {2015}, date = {2015-01-01}, booktitle = {Hazards, Risks, and Disasters in Society}, pages = {63-78}, publisher = {Elsevier Inc.}, address = {Amsterdam}, chapter = {5}, abstract = {Southern Africa suffers from an acute lack in skilled capacities for disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. The region, with its unique disaster risk profile, is mostly bound by its inability to effect change and transformation for sustainable development and resilience building. Reasons for these limitations are largely due to the lack of capacities in disaster risk reduction with the public, semiprivate, as well as private sectors. However, since the 1990s, some significant work in disaster risk governance in the region has led to some of the most forward-thinking policies and acts in the world. Therefore, the disaster risk reduction communities in the various Southern African states have not been idle. The major constraint now faced is the translation of these policies and plans into action, and this is where the need for more capacities becomes strikingly obvious. Research and academic institutions in the region have outlived all of the regimes and regime changes. These institutions are ideally suited to address the policy/practice gap that exists within the disaster risk reduction domain. In this chapter, we argue for a focus shift in developing sustainable capacities for disaster risk reduction in Southern Africa by first acknowledging and second harnessing the existing skills base in the region. We believe that contemporary capacity development for disaster risk reduction is predominantly ad hoc, short term, project focused, and microsized, and should be changed from within the region, by building on existing institutions and networks that are driven by Southern African institutions.}, keywords = {capacity development, disaster risk reduction}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {inbook} } Southern Africa suffers from an acute lack in skilled capacities for disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. The region, with its unique disaster risk profile, is mostly bound by its inability to effect change and transformation for sustainable development and resilience building. Reasons for these limitations are largely due to the lack of capacities in disaster risk reduction with the public, semiprivate, as well as private sectors. However, since the 1990s, some significant work in disaster risk governance in the region has led to some of the most forward-thinking policies and acts in the world. Therefore, the disaster risk reduction communities in the various Southern African states have not been idle. The major constraint now faced is the translation of these policies and plans into action, and this is where the need for more capacities becomes strikingly obvious. Research and academic institutions in the region have outlived all of the regimes and regime changes. These institutions are ideally suited to address the policy/practice gap that exists within the disaster risk reduction domain. In this chapter, we argue for a focus shift in developing sustainable capacities for disaster risk reduction in Southern Africa by first acknowledging and second harnessing the existing skills base in the region. We believe that contemporary capacity development for disaster risk reduction is predominantly ad hoc, short term, project focused, and microsized, and should be changed from within the region, by building on existing institutions and networks that are driven by Southern African institutions. |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; Ndlovu, Everson ; Chipangura, Paul Experiences of Africa: Status and Potentials Book Chapter Shaw, R; Izumi, T (Ed.): Disaster Management and Private Sectors, Chapter 6, pp. 83–104, Springer Japan, Tokyo, 2015, ISBN: 978-4-431-55414-1. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Africa, disaster risk reduction, private sector @inbook{vanNiekerk:2015hc, title = {Experiences of Africa: Status and Potentials}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and Ndlovu, Everson and Chipangura, Paul}, editor = {Shaw, R. and Izumi, T.}, doi = {10.1007/978-4-431-55414-1_6}, isbn = {978-4-431-55414-1}, year = {2015}, date = {2015-01-01}, booktitle = {Disaster Management and Private Sectors}, pages = {83--104}, publisher = {Springer Japan}, address = {Tokyo}, chapter = {6}, abstract = {This chapter reviews the African experiences of disaster risk reduction and involvement of private sector from a variety of perspectives. The private sector has the ability to create risks, reduce risks, but also transfers risk through various mechanisms. On a continent where the private sector is moreover a development partner, this chapter explores the contributions by the private sector to the African risk profile (positive and negative). It considers a number of case studies/examples on how the private sector in Africa has been involved in disaster risk reduction measures from a development perspective. The chapter provides a set of recommendations for future involvement of private sectors in risk reduction.}, keywords = {Africa, disaster risk reduction, private sector}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {inbook} } This chapter reviews the African experiences of disaster risk reduction and involvement of private sector from a variety of perspectives. The private sector has the ability to create risks, reduce risks, but also transfers risk through various mechanisms. On a continent where the private sector is moreover a development partner, this chapter explores the contributions by the private sector to the African risk profile (positive and negative). It considers a number of case studies/examples on how the private sector in Africa has been involved in disaster risk reduction measures from a development perspective. The chapter provides a set of recommendations for future involvement of private sectors in risk reduction. |
2014 |
Journal Articles |
van Niekerk, Dewald A critical analysis of the South African Disaster Management Act and Policy Framework Journal Article Disasters, 38 (4), pp. 858–877, 2014. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: disaster risk governance, policy, South Africa @article{vanNiekerk:2014js, title = {A critical analysis of the South African Disaster Management Act and Policy Framework}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, doi = {10.1111/disa.12081}, year = {2014}, date = {2014-05-05}, journal = {Disasters}, volume = {38}, number = {4}, pages = {858--877}, abstract = {The promulgation of the South African Disaster Management Act No. 57 of 2002 and the National Disaster Management Policy Framework of 2005 placed South Africa at the inter- national forefront by integrating disaster risk reduction into all spheres of government through a decentralised approach. Yet, good policy and legislation do not necessarily translate into good practice. This paper provides a critical analysis of the Act and Policy Framework. Using qualitative research methods, it analyses the attitudes and perceptions of senior public officials on all levels of government, the private sector and academia. The study finds that one of the weakest aspects of the Act and Framework is the absence of clear guidance to local municipalities. The placement of the disaster risk management function on all tiers of government remains problematic, funding is inadequate and overall knowledge and capacities for disaster risk reduction are insufficient.}, keywords = {disaster risk governance, policy, South Africa}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The promulgation of the South African Disaster Management Act No. 57 of 2002 and the National Disaster Management Policy Framework of 2005 placed South Africa at the inter- national forefront by integrating disaster risk reduction into all spheres of government through a decentralised approach. Yet, good policy and legislation do not necessarily translate into good practice. This paper provides a critical analysis of the Act and Policy Framework. Using qualitative research methods, it analyses the attitudes and perceptions of senior public officials on all levels of government, the private sector and academia. The study finds that one of the weakest aspects of the Act and Framework is the absence of clear guidance to local municipalities. The placement of the disaster risk management function on all tiers of government remains problematic, funding is inadequate and overall knowledge and capacities for disaster risk reduction are insufficient. |
Book Chapters |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; Wisner, Ben Integrating disaster risk management and development planning: Experiences from Africa Book Chapter Lopez-Carresi, Alejandro ; Fordham, Maureen ; Wisner, Ben ; Kelman, Ilan ; Gaillard, J C (Ed.): Disaster Management: International lessons in risk reduction, response and recovery, pp. 330, Routledge, New York, 2014. BibTeX | Tags: Africa, development, planning @inbook{vanNiekerk:2014to, title = {Integrating disaster risk management and development planning: Experiences from Africa}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and Wisner, Ben}, editor = {Lopez-Carresi, Alejandro and Fordham, Maureen and Wisner, Ben and Kelman, Ilan and Gaillard, J.C.}, year = {2014}, date = {2014-01-01}, booktitle = {Disaster Management: International lessons in risk reduction, response and recovery}, pages = {330}, publisher = {Routledge}, address = {New York}, keywords = {Africa, development, planning}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {inbook} } |
2013 |
Journal Articles |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; Coetzee, Christo ; Botha, Doret ; Murphree, Michael John ; Fourie, Kristel ; le Roux, Tanya ; Wentink, Gideon J; Kruger, Leandri ; Shoroma, Lesego ; Genade, Kylah ; Meyer, Suna ; Annandale, Elrista Planning and Executing Scenario Based Simulation Exercises: Methodological Lessons Journal Article Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, 12 (1), pp. 193-210, 2013. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: methodology, planning, scenario @article{vanNiekerk:2013gj, title = {Planning and Executing Scenario Based Simulation Exercises: Methodological Lessons}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and Coetzee, Christo and Botha, Doret and Murphree, Michael John and Fourie, Kristel and le Roux, Tanya and Wentink, Gideon J. and Kruger, Leandri and Shoroma, Lesego and Genade, Kylah and Meyer, Suna and Annandale, Elrista}, doi = {10.1515/jhsem-2013-0077}, year = {2013}, date = {2013-10-01}, journal = {Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {193-210}, abstract = {The South African disaster management legislation advocates the importance of implementing pro-active disaster risk reduction strategies that will ensure a safe and sustainable society. One key strategic activity identified is the use of simulation exercises to improve overall societal readiness and inter-agency coordination in case of major incidents or disasters. However, very little is cur- rently understood or planned especially at South African local government level, on what simulation exercises entail and the methodology behind their imple- mentation. This paper aims at conveying some crucial methodological inputs that disaster risk managers or emergency response agencies should consider when planning, designing and implementing simulation exercises by analysing a hazardous chemical spillage simulation in the Tlokwe Local Municipality, North- West Province, South Africa. The research found that in the South African context attention needs to be paid to methodological issues such as scenario develop- ment, role-player selection, fidelity during simulation delivery, data collection and participant (de)briefing.}, keywords = {methodology, planning, scenario}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The South African disaster management legislation advocates the importance of implementing pro-active disaster risk reduction strategies that will ensure a safe and sustainable society. One key strategic activity identified is the use of simulation exercises to improve overall societal readiness and inter-agency coordination in case of major incidents or disasters. However, very little is cur- rently understood or planned especially at South African local government level, on what simulation exercises entail and the methodology behind their imple- mentation. This paper aims at conveying some crucial methodological inputs that disaster risk managers or emergency response agencies should consider when planning, designing and implementing simulation exercises by analysing a hazardous chemical spillage simulation in the Tlokwe Local Municipality, North- West Province, South Africa. The research found that in the South African context attention needs to be paid to methodological issues such as scenario develop- ment, role-player selection, fidelity during simulation delivery, data collection and participant (de)briefing. |
Botha, Doret ; van Niekerk, Dewald Views from the Frontline: A critical assessment of local risk governance in South Africa Journal Article Jamba: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies, 5 , pp. 1-10, 2013. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: disaster risk governance, South Africa, Views from the Frontline @article{Botha:2013fd, title = {Views from the Frontline: A critical assessment of local risk governance in South Africa}, author = {Botha, Doret and van Niekerk, Dewald}, doi = {dx.doi. org/10.4102/jamba.v5i2.82}, year = {2013}, date = {2013-01-01}, journal = {Jamba: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies}, volume = {5}, pages = {1-10}, abstract = {In 2005 the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction introduced the ‘Hyogo Framework for Action’ (HFA) aimed at mainstreaming disaster risk reduction. Subsequently, the ‘Global Network for Disaster Reduction’ (GNDR) was formed to support the implementation of the HFA. The GNDR initiated a country-based, international research project called ‘Views from the Frontline’ (VFL) in order to measure progress at local level in terms of compliance with the HFA. The VFL 2011 project focused on local risk governance, which is critical for effective implementation of policy and provision of resources at grassroots level. This article provides insight into the findings for South Africa. The project made use of quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data was gathered by means of a survey and/or questionnaire consisting of 20 questions on ‘indicators’ which assessed progress toward the goals of the HFA. The surveys also provided for qualitative commentary. The target population for this research consisted of local government officials and community representatives. Based on the quantitative scores for all the different indicators, the research showed that South Africa could still improve significantly in terms of compliance with the HFA. More attention must be given to operationalise the HFA at local level, a culture of safety must be fostered, local actors and communities must be involved directly and consulted, indigenous knowledge must be recognised, and significant capacity development for disaster risk reduction is necessary.}, keywords = {disaster risk governance, South Africa, Views from the Frontline}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } In 2005 the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction introduced the ‘Hyogo Framework for Action’ (HFA) aimed at mainstreaming disaster risk reduction. Subsequently, the ‘Global Network for Disaster Reduction’ (GNDR) was formed to support the implementation of the HFA. The GNDR initiated a country-based, international research project called ‘Views from the Frontline’ (VFL) in order to measure progress at local level in terms of compliance with the HFA. The VFL 2011 project focused on local risk governance, which is critical for effective implementation of policy and provision of resources at grassroots level. This article provides insight into the findings for South Africa. The project made use of quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data was gathered by means of a survey and/or questionnaire consisting of 20 questions on ‘indicators’ which assessed progress toward the goals of the HFA. The surveys also provided for qualitative commentary. The target population for this research consisted of local government officials and community representatives. Based on the quantitative scores for all the different indicators, the research showed that South Africa could still improve significantly in terms of compliance with the HFA. More attention must be given to operationalise the HFA at local level, a culture of safety must be fostered, local actors and communities must be involved directly and consulted, indigenous knowledge must be recognised, and significant capacity development for disaster risk reduction is necessary. |
Coetzee, Christo ; van Niekerk, Dewald Towards a Disaster Risk Assessment Methodology for Communities Underlain by Dolomite Journal Article Disaster Prevention and Management, 22 (4), pp. 351-365, 2013. Links | BibTeX | Tags: disaster risk assessment, dolomite @article{Coetzee:2013jh, title = {Towards a Disaster Risk Assessment Methodology for Communities Underlain by Dolomite}, author = {Coetzee, Christo and van Niekerk, Dewald}, doi = {10.1108/DPM-04-2013-0068}, year = {2013}, date = {2013-01-01}, journal = {Disaster Prevention and Management}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {351-365}, keywords = {disaster risk assessment, dolomite}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; Annandale, Elrista Utilising Participatory Research Techniques For Community-Based Disaster Risk Assessment Journal Article International Journal of Mass Emergencies and Disasters, 31 (2), pp. 160-177, 2013. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: community-based disaster risk reduction, participatory @article{vanNiekerk:2013uk, title = {Utilising Participatory Research Techniques For Community-Based Disaster Risk Assessment}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and Annandale, Elrista}, url = {http://www.ijmed.org/articles/620/}, year = {2013}, date = {2013-01-01}, journal = {International Journal of Mass Emergencies and Disasters}, volume = {31}, number = {2}, pages = {160-177}, abstract = {Community-based disaster risk assessment yields the best results and most trustworthy primary data in understanding the disaster risk that communities face. Yet, most of the disaster risk assessments undertaken within South Africa exhibit very little evidence of community-based and participatory approaches. Participatory research techniques and capacity development interventions were used in a community-based disaster risk assessment project covering 22 communities in the North-West Province of South Africa. This article describes the methodology developed, as well as the resulting findings of one of these at-risk communities. The robust research approach proved to be reliable, valid, and trustworthy—and, at the same time, ensured direct community participation. A number of participatory research techniques such as transect walks, community workshops, and participatory GIS were employed. The research found that the knowledge in local communities is extremely reliable in the development of their disaster risk profile, and can mostly be unlocked through participatory methods.}, keywords = {community-based disaster risk reduction, participatory}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Community-based disaster risk assessment yields the best results and most trustworthy primary data in understanding the disaster risk that communities face. Yet, most of the disaster risk assessments undertaken within South Africa exhibit very little evidence of community-based and participatory approaches. Participatory research techniques and capacity development interventions were used in a community-based disaster risk assessment project covering 22 communities in the North-West Province of South Africa. This article describes the methodology developed, as well as the resulting findings of one of these at-risk communities. The robust research approach proved to be reliable, valid, and trustworthy—and, at the same time, ensured direct community participation. A number of participatory research techniques such as transect walks, community workshops, and participatory GIS were employed. The research found that the knowledge in local communities is extremely reliable in the development of their disaster risk profile, and can mostly be unlocked through participatory methods. |
Raju, Emmanuel ; van Niekerk, Dewald Intra-governmental Coordination for Sustainable Disaster Recovery: A Case-study of the Eden District Municipality, South Africa Journal Article International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 4 , pp. 92-99, 2013. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: disaster recovery, Eden district @article{Raju:2013co, title = {Intra-governmental Coordination for Sustainable Disaster Recovery: A Case-study of the Eden District Municipality, South Africa}, author = {Raju, Emmanuel and van Niekerk, Dewald}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijdrr.2013.03.001}, year = {2013}, date = {2013-01-01}, journal = {International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction}, volume = {4}, pages = {92-99}, abstract = {Post-disaster coordination is an essential aspect to achieve sustainable disaster recovery. However, to date, little attention has been paid to the subject of coordination in disaster recovery in comparison to response coordination. This study is an investigation into the factors affecting coordination for sustainable disaster recovery. It uses the case-study of Eden district Municipality in South Africa which has been continuously impacted by floods. The paper provides a background on disaster risk management, response and recovery in South Africa to understand the legal instruments available for coordination within the government. The study is structured around the theoretical themes of coordination within the public sector and sustainable disaster recovery. This paper also aims to make suggestions for coordinating sustainable disaster recovery. According to the respondents, the study highlights that (1) much attention paid to response oriented disaster risk management; (2) government departments working in independent silos; and (3) funding and political will are factors that affect coordination for sustainable disaster recovery. Though, the study is limited to a single case study, the results presented may be important considerations in other recovery settings.}, keywords = {disaster recovery, Eden district}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Post-disaster coordination is an essential aspect to achieve sustainable disaster recovery. However, to date, little attention has been paid to the subject of coordination in disaster recovery in comparison to response coordination. This study is an investigation into the factors affecting coordination for sustainable disaster recovery. It uses the case-study of Eden district Municipality in South Africa which has been continuously impacted by floods. The paper provides a background on disaster risk management, response and recovery in South Africa to understand the legal instruments available for coordination within the government. The study is structured around the theoretical themes of coordination within the public sector and sustainable disaster recovery. This paper also aims to make suggestions for coordinating sustainable disaster recovery. According to the respondents, the study highlights that (1) much attention paid to response oriented disaster risk management; (2) government departments working in independent silos; and (3) funding and political will are factors that affect coordination for sustainable disaster recovery. Though, the study is limited to a single case study, the results presented may be important considerations in other recovery settings. |
2012 |
Journal Articles |
van Riet, Gideon ; van Niekerk, Dewald Capacity development for participatory disaster risk assessment Journal Article Environmental Hazards: Human and Policy Dimensions, 11 (3), pp. 213–225, 2012. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: capacity development, disaster risk assessment @article{vanRiet2012, title = {Capacity development for participatory disaster risk assessment}, author = {van Riet, Gideon and van Niekerk, Dewald}, doi = {10.1080/17477891.2012.688793}, year = {2012}, date = {2012-05-01}, journal = {Environmental Hazards: Human and Policy Dimensions}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {213--225}, abstract = {In this paper a large-scale community-based disaster risk-assessment project, undertaken in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality in the North-West Province of South Africa, is evaluated. In contrast to other disaster risk management consultancy projects in South Africa, this project included a significant skills transfer component to the at-risk communities and local gov- ernment officials. In this evaluation, the authors draw on their own experiences in implementing this and similar projects, a review of the project management documents is undertaken, and a focus group interview with facilitators involved in the project is used as a primary source. The discussion is further contextualised in terms of community-based disaster risk assessment theory and the existing literature on disaster risk assessment in South Africa. Logistical and data quality issues as well as staff turnover were found to be concerns during the project. From the findings, it is argued that the common practice of outsourcing disaster risk- management projects is not conducive to effective disaster risk management. Local government entities should take respon- sibility for disaster risk assessment as a continual activity. This is in contrast to the view currently manifesting in South Africa as a set of bureaucratic actions undertaken by consultants to achieve ‘legislative compliance’ for municipalities.}, keywords = {capacity development, disaster risk assessment}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } In this paper a large-scale community-based disaster risk-assessment project, undertaken in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality in the North-West Province of South Africa, is evaluated. In contrast to other disaster risk management consultancy projects in South Africa, this project included a significant skills transfer component to the at-risk communities and local gov- ernment officials. In this evaluation, the authors draw on their own experiences in implementing this and similar projects, a review of the project management documents is undertaken, and a focus group interview with facilitators involved in the project is used as a primary source. The discussion is further contextualised in terms of community-based disaster risk assessment theory and the existing literature on disaster risk assessment in South Africa. Logistical and data quality issues as well as staff turnover were found to be concerns during the project. From the findings, it is argued that the common practice of outsourcing disaster risk- management projects is not conducive to effective disaster risk management. Local government entities should take respon- sibility for disaster risk assessment as a continual activity. This is in contrast to the view currently manifesting in South Africa as a set of bureaucratic actions undertaken by consultants to achieve ‘legislative compliance’ for municipalities. |
Coetzee, Christo ; van Niekerk, Dewald Tracking the evolution of the disaster management cycle: A general system theory approach Journal Article Jamba: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies, 4 (1), 2012. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: disaster management cycle, systems theory @article{Coetzee:2012cb, title = {Tracking the evolution of the disaster management cycle: A general system theory approach}, author = {Coetzee, Christo and van Niekerk, Dewald}, url = {http://jamba.org.za/index.php/jamba/article/view/54}, doi = {10.4102/jamba.v4i1.54}, year = {2012}, date = {2012-01-01}, journal = {Jamba: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, abstract = {Officials and scholars have used the disaster management cycle for the past 30 years to explain and manage impacts. Although very little understanding and agreement exist in terms of where the concept originated it is the purpose of this article to address the origins of the disaster management cycle. To achieve this, general system theory concepts of isomorphisms, equifinality, open systems and feedback arrangements were applied to linear disaster phase research (which emerged in the 1920s) and disaster management cycles. This was done in order to determine whether they are related concepts with procedures such as emergency, relief, recovery and rehabilitation.}, keywords = {disaster management cycle, systems theory}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Officials and scholars have used the disaster management cycle for the past 30 years to explain and manage impacts. Although very little understanding and agreement exist in terms of where the concept originated it is the purpose of this article to address the origins of the disaster management cycle. To achieve this, general system theory concepts of isomorphisms, equifinality, open systems and feedback arrangements were applied to linear disaster phase research (which emerged in the 1920s) and disaster management cycles. This was done in order to determine whether they are related concepts with procedures such as emergency, relief, recovery and rehabilitation. |
Faling, Willemien ; Tempelhoff, Johann ; van Niekerk, Dewald Rhetoric or action: Are South African municipalities planning for climate change? Journal Article Development Southern Africa, 29 (02), pp. 241-258, 2012. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: climate change adaptation, South Africa @article{Faling2012, title = {Rhetoric or action: Are South African municipalities planning for climate change?}, author = {Faling, Willemien and Tempelhoff, Johann and van Niekerk, Dewald}, doi = {10.1080/0376835X.2012.675695}, year = {2012}, date = {2012-01-01}, journal = {Development Southern Africa}, volume = {29}, number = {02}, pages = {241-258}, abstract = {In 2008 the South African National Disaster Management Centre commissioned a study into measures taken by local municipalities to plan for climate change. Two areas were selected for their dissimilar climatic challenges: the //Khara Hais Municipality,1 a semi-desert area in the Northern Cape Province plagued by droughts and severe weather events, and the George Municipality, an area in the Western Cape Province plagued by droughts, the rising sea level and flash floods. It was found that despite South African laws and regulations requiring local government to take action to reduce the risk of disasters, planning for climate change is still no more than sophisticated rhetoric in the two municipalities. This lack of urgency can be ascribed to local municipalities having other more pressing developmental priorities. It would, however, be short-sighted of municipalities not to plan for climate change, as major setbacks in hard-won economic and social development follow a disaster.}, keywords = {climate change adaptation, South Africa}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } In 2008 the South African National Disaster Management Centre commissioned a study into measures taken by local municipalities to plan for climate change. Two areas were selected for their dissimilar climatic challenges: the //Khara Hais Municipality,1 a semi-desert area in the Northern Cape Province plagued by droughts and severe weather events, and the George Municipality, an area in the Western Cape Province plagued by droughts, the rising sea level and flash floods. It was found that despite South African laws and regulations requiring local government to take action to reduce the risk of disasters, planning for climate change is still no more than sophisticated rhetoric in the two municipalities. This lack of urgency can be ascribed to local municipalities having other more pressing developmental priorities. It would, however, be short-sighted of municipalities not to plan for climate change, as major setbacks in hard-won economic and social development follow a disaster. |
Books |
van Niekerk, Dewald Transdisciplinarity : the binding paradigm for disaster risk reduction Book dspace.nwu.ac.za, Potchefstroom, 2012. BibTeX | Tags: disaster risk reduction, transdisciplinarity @book{vanNiekerk:2012vj, title = {Transdisciplinarity : the binding paradigm for disaster risk reduction}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2012}, date = {2012-01-01}, publisher = {dspace.nwu.ac.za}, address = {Potchefstroom}, series = {SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTIONS (Wetenskaplike Bydraes) SERIES H: INAUGURALADDRESS: NR. 254}, keywords = {disaster risk reduction, transdisciplinarity}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {book} } |
Booklets |
van Niekerk, Dewald Transdisciplinarity: The binding paradigm for disaster risk reduction Booklet NWU, Scientific contributions: Series H: Inaugural Address: Nr. 254, 2012, ISBN: 978-1-86822-633-7. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: disaster risk reduction, transdisciplinarity @booklet{vanNiekerk:2012wp, title = {Transdisciplinarity: The binding paradigm for disaster risk reduction}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, url = {http://dspace.nwu.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10394/8572/Van_Niekerk_D.pdf?sequence=1}, isbn = {978-1-86822-633-7}, year = {2012}, date = {2012-10-23}, volume = {254}, abstract = {In this paper, the focus is on the possible contributions of many disciplines to the concept of disaster risk through a transdisciplinary paradigm. Using transdisciplinarity as paradigm reference to a number of theories, models and tools in many disciplines will show how each has a unique contribution to make to the field of disaster risk reduction.}, howpublished = {NWU, Scientific contributions: Series H: Inaugural Address: Nr. 254}, month = {10}, keywords = {disaster risk reduction, transdisciplinarity}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {booklet} } In this paper, the focus is on the possible contributions of many disciplines to the concept of disaster risk through a transdisciplinary paradigm. Using transdisciplinarity as paradigm reference to a number of theories, models and tools in many disciplines will show how each has a unique contribution to make to the field of disaster risk reduction. |
Book Chapters |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; Coetzee, Christo African Experiences in Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction Book Chapter Shaw, R (Ed.): Community, Environment and Disaster Risk Management, Chapter 17, pp. 333-349, Emerald Group Publishing, Bingley, 2012. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Africa, community-based disaster risk reduction @inbook{VanNiekerk:2012ge, title = {African Experiences in Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and Coetzee, Christo}, editor = {Shaw, R.}, doi = {10.1108/S2040-7262(2012)0000010023}, year = {2012}, date = {2012-01-01}, booktitle = {Community, Environment and Disaster Risk Management}, pages = {333-349}, publisher = {Emerald Group Publishing}, address = {Bingley}, chapter = {17}, abstract = {Stories of disasters in Africa conjure up images of the helpless hordes, in peril and in need of outside assistance. Most of the major disasters in Africa since the 1970s have a significant food crisis and famine component. These could be linked to failed states and complex emergencies such as inter-, intra-state conflict, and civil unrest. However, the domain of disaster risk reduction (DRR) in Africa has progressed significantly in the last decade. Moreover, we find that African states are celebrating democracy through third and fourth rounds of democratic elections. With the exception of a few, the “old men” of Africa are stepping down after years of Presidency and allowing the democratic wheel to turn. DRR in Africa has not been immune to these changes. Moreover, one finds exceptional examples of political will toward DRR and multi-sectoral approaches toward solving DRR problematic. One such approach that has enjoyed heightened attention is community-based actions and involvement.}, keywords = {Africa, community-based disaster risk reduction}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {inbook} } Stories of disasters in Africa conjure up images of the helpless hordes, in peril and in need of outside assistance. Most of the major disasters in Africa since the 1970s have a significant food crisis and famine component. These could be linked to failed states and complex emergencies such as inter-, intra-state conflict, and civil unrest. However, the domain of disaster risk reduction (DRR) in Africa has progressed significantly in the last decade. Moreover, we find that African states are celebrating democracy through third and fourth rounds of democratic elections. With the exception of a few, the “old men” of Africa are stepping down after years of Presidency and allowing the democratic wheel to turn. DRR in Africa has not been immune to these changes. Moreover, one finds exceptional examples of political will toward DRR and multi-sectoral approaches toward solving DRR problematic. One such approach that has enjoyed heightened attention is community-based actions and involvement. |
PhD Theses |
Prinsloo, Barend L School of Social and Government Studies, North-West University, 2012. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Africa, hybrid peace operations @phdthesis{Prinsloo:2012un, title = {The AU/UN hybrid peace operation in Africa - A new approach to maintain international peace and security}, author = {Prinsloo, Barend L}, url = {http://acds.co.za/newsite/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/PhD-Final-submission-25-March-2012-Barend-Prinsloo.pdf}, year = {2012}, date = {2012-01-01}, address = {Potchefstroom}, school = {School of Social and Government Studies, North-West University}, abstract = {The perpetual conflict in Darfur, Sudan, which started anew in 2003, attracted much attention and publicity from the international media and humanitarian communities. Based on the initial reports from the international media and other non-governmental sources, member states of the United Nations, such as the United States of America and some European countries, quickly condemned the conflict. Within the same year (2003), allegations surfaced of genocide being committed in Darfur by the Government of Sudan through its military proxy, the Janjaweed. With the advent of the African Union in the early 2000s and its emphasis on ‘Africa being responsible for solving its own problems’, the African Union responded on principle and started peace mediation between the warring parties. The African Union also established a peace operation, the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS), in mid-2004, albeit only to monitor the conflict. Eventually AMIS proved, however, to be less than effective in dealing with the complexities of the conflict and fundamentally lacked resources to adequately curb the violence. Nonetheless, the African Union continued to lead peace talks between the Government of Sudan and the rebel groups in Darfur. Simultaneously, other states in the region, such as Chad and Libya, also attempted to broker peace bilaterally, but their efforts were in vain. AMIS, though ineffective, maintained its footprint in Darfur. The conflict continued to escalate and affected the entire region, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Libya to some extent, but mostly Chad and the Central African Republic. It became a conflict threatening international peace and security with dire humanitarian consequences. In the meantime, the UN Security Council, which has the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, was legally obliged to act and confront the perpetrators in the conflict. Any real action by the UN Security Council, however, became constrained by political pressures and lobbying from the Government of Sudan, the African Union and certain permanent members of the UN Security Council. Nonetheless, in 2004, the UN Security Council opted to obtain more information about the conflict and the humanitarian state of affairs in Darfur through a Commission of Inquiry. By this time, allegations had been made in the international media that the Government of Sudan was responsible for atrocities being committed against the peoples of Darfur and the United Nations was very concerned. Although the UN Commission of Inquiry in its report to the UN Security Council (released at the beginning of 2005) found that the Government of Sudan was not pursuing a policy of genocide, it did point out that grave human rights violations were being committed and that some individuals were suspected to have committed criminal atrocities in Darfur. The UN Security Council subsequently referred the investigations into the atrocities to the International Criminal Court and instituted sanctions against the individuals concerned, as well as restricting weapons going into Darfur. In the meantime peace talks continued. As an outcome of the seven Inter-Sudanese Peace Talks on the conflict in Darfur, the Government of Sudan and the Minni Minawi rebel faction of the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army signed the landmark Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA) on 5 May 2006 in Abuja, Nigeria. The DPA, however, was rejected by the peoples in Darfur and other rebel groups and the conflict intensified again. Notwithstanding the lack of local support for the DPA, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1679 on 16 May 2006. The resolution called on the African Union and the United Nations to agree upon requirements necessary to strengthen the capacity of AMIS to enforce the security arrangements of the DPA, with a view to a follow-on United Nations operation in Darfur. Although the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) was originally earmarked through Resolution 1706 to support the implementation of the DPA, the UN Security Council rather decided to follow the recommendations made by the African Union at its 66th meeting on 30 November 2006, for a three-phased United Nations support to AMIS: 1) a light support package, 2) a heavy support package and 3) a hybrid peace operation. Consequently, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 1769 on 31 July 2007 and authorised a 26 000 person-strong joint African Union/United Nations hybrid operation (UNAMID) to take over from AMIS. UNAMID was established with dual command and control linked to both the African Union and the United Nations and both organisations would have an equal say in its mandate and operations. Given this unique and unprecedented arrangement between a regional organisation and the United Nations in terms of maintaining international peace and security, the aim of this research was to: • Understand and describe the political motivations/reasons why the United Nations formed a hybrid peace operation with the African Union; • Establish in which way the aforementioned impacted on future efforts of the United Nations to maintain international peace and security, especially on the African continent; and, based on this, • To determine whether or not hybrid operations were a viable alternative for the United Nations to maintain international peace and security. By means of a thorough analysis of the theoretical underpinnings of international peace and security, an assessment of the peace and security architecture of the United Nations and the African Union, an investigation into the origins of the Darfur conflict, an examination of the structure and mandate of UNAMID, and through an empirical investigation, a new theoretical proposition is provided in the conclusion of the thesis. In this regard, it is determined in the thesis that although a hybrid operation increases the freedom of approach for the United Nations to maintain international peace and security, it remains uncertain as to whether or not its authority as the primary entity responsible for maintaining international peace and security diminishes as a result. In fact, this particular agreement with the African Union probably increased its effectiveness on the African continent in maintaining international peace and security. It is, however, concluded that the UNAMID model, in practical terms, is not an optimal mechanism for the United Nations to use to maintain international peace and security because it suffers from numerous internal political inequities and operational inadequacies. Nonetheless, it is proposed that the United Nations cannot continue its approach to unilaterally maintaining international peace and security as it had done in the past and that it should understand that the hybrid-peace model highlights the growing self-reliance of member states and mounting impatience with the slow political decision-making process of the UN Security Council.}, keywords = {Africa, hybrid peace operations}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {phdthesis} } The perpetual conflict in Darfur, Sudan, which started anew in 2003, attracted much attention and publicity from the international media and humanitarian communities. Based on the initial reports from the international media and other non-governmental sources, member states of the United Nations, such as the United States of America and some European countries, quickly condemned the conflict. Within the same year (2003), allegations surfaced of genocide being committed in Darfur by the Government of Sudan through its military proxy, the Janjaweed. With the advent of the African Union in the early 2000s and its emphasis on ‘Africa being responsible for solving its own problems’, the African Union responded on principle and started peace mediation between the warring parties. The African Union also established a peace operation, the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS), in mid-2004, albeit only to monitor the conflict. Eventually AMIS proved, however, to be less than effective in dealing with the complexities of the conflict and fundamentally lacked resources to adequately curb the violence. Nonetheless, the African Union continued to lead peace talks between the Government of Sudan and the rebel groups in Darfur. Simultaneously, other states in the region, such as Chad and Libya, also attempted to broker peace bilaterally, but their efforts were in vain. AMIS, though ineffective, maintained its footprint in Darfur. The conflict continued to escalate and affected the entire region, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Libya to some extent, but mostly Chad and the Central African Republic. It became a conflict threatening international peace and security with dire humanitarian consequences. In the meantime, the UN Security Council, which has the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, was legally obliged to act and confront the perpetrators in the conflict. Any real action by the UN Security Council, however, became constrained by political pressures and lobbying from the Government of Sudan, the African Union and certain permanent members of the UN Security Council. Nonetheless, in 2004, the UN Security Council opted to obtain more information about the conflict and the humanitarian state of affairs in Darfur through a Commission of Inquiry. By this time, allegations had been made in the international media that the Government of Sudan was responsible for atrocities being committed against the peoples of Darfur and the United Nations was very concerned. Although the UN Commission of Inquiry in its report to the UN Security Council (released at the beginning of 2005) found that the Government of Sudan was not pursuing a policy of genocide, it did point out that grave human rights violations were being committed and that some individuals were suspected to have committed criminal atrocities in Darfur. The UN Security Council subsequently referred the investigations into the atrocities to the International Criminal Court and instituted sanctions against the individuals concerned, as well as restricting weapons going into Darfur. In the meantime peace talks continued. As an outcome of the seven Inter-Sudanese Peace Talks on the conflict in Darfur, the Government of Sudan and the Minni Minawi rebel faction of the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army signed the landmark Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA) on 5 May 2006 in Abuja, Nigeria. The DPA, however, was rejected by the peoples in Darfur and other rebel groups and the conflict intensified again. Notwithstanding the lack of local support for the DPA, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1679 on 16 May 2006. The resolution called on the African Union and the United Nations to agree upon requirements necessary to strengthen the capacity of AMIS to enforce the security arrangements of the DPA, with a view to a follow-on United Nations operation in Darfur. Although the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) was originally earmarked through Resolution 1706 to support the implementation of the DPA, the UN Security Council rather decided to follow the recommendations made by the African Union at its 66th meeting on 30 November 2006, for a three-phased United Nations support to AMIS: 1) a light support package, 2) a heavy support package and 3) a hybrid peace operation. Consequently, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 1769 on 31 July 2007 and authorised a 26 000 person-strong joint African Union/United Nations hybrid operation (UNAMID) to take over from AMIS. UNAMID was established with dual command and control linked to both the African Union and the United Nations and both organisations would have an equal say in its mandate and operations. Given this unique and unprecedented arrangement between a regional organisation and the United Nations in terms of maintaining international peace and security, the aim of this research was to: • Understand and describe the political motivations/reasons why the United Nations formed a hybrid peace operation with the African Union; • Establish in which way the aforementioned impacted on future efforts of the United Nations to maintain international peace and security, especially on the African continent; and, based on this, • To determine whether or not hybrid operations were a viable alternative for the United Nations to maintain international peace and security. By means of a thorough analysis of the theoretical underpinnings of international peace and security, an assessment of the peace and security architecture of the United Nations and the African Union, an investigation into the origins of the Darfur conflict, an examination of the structure and mandate of UNAMID, and through an empirical investigation, a new theoretical proposition is provided in the conclusion of the thesis. In this regard, it is determined in the thesis that although a hybrid operation increases the freedom of approach for the United Nations to maintain international peace and security, it remains uncertain as to whether or not its authority as the primary entity responsible for maintaining international peace and security diminishes as a result. In fact, this particular agreement with the African Union probably increased its effectiveness on the African continent in maintaining international peace and security. It is, however, concluded that the UNAMID model, in practical terms, is not an optimal mechanism for the United Nations to use to maintain international peace and security because it suffers from numerous internal political inequities and operational inadequacies. Nonetheless, it is proposed that the United Nations cannot continue its approach to unilaterally maintaining international peace and security as it had done in the past and that it should understand that the hybrid-peace model highlights the growing self-reliance of member states and mounting impatience with the slow political decision-making process of the UN Security Council. |
2011 |
Journal Articles |
Jansen Van Vuuren, Isak D; van Niekerk, Dewald Veld fire rapid impact assessment Journal Article PositionIT, pp. 49–50, 2011. BibTeX | Tags: @article{JansenVanVuuren:2011vt, title = {Veld fire rapid impact assessment}, author = {Jansen Van Vuuren, Isak D and van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2011}, date = {2011-01-01}, journal = {PositionIT}, pages = {49--50}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
Nealer, E J; Van Eeden, E S; van Niekerk, Dewald ; Tempelhoff, JWN Geohydrological issues of importance in the area governed by the Delmas Local Municipality Journal Article Politeia, 30 (3), pp. 5–30, 2011. BibTeX | Tags: @article{Nealer:2011wb, title = {Geohydrological issues of importance in the area governed by the Delmas Local Municipality}, author = {Nealer, E J and Van Eeden, E S and van Niekerk, Dewald and Tempelhoff, JWN}, year = {2011}, date = {2011-01-01}, journal = {Politeia}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {5--30}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
Technical Reports |
Botha, Doret ; van Niekerk, Dewald ; Wentink, Gideon J; Coetzee, Christo ; Forbes, Kylah ; Maartens, Yolanda ; Annandale, Elrista ; Tshona, Toto ; Raju, Emmanuel Disaster Risk Management Status Assessment at Municipalities in South Africa Technical Report Pretoria, 2011. BibTeX | Tags: @techreport{Botha:2011tb, title = {Disaster Risk Management Status Assessment at Municipalities in South Africa}, author = {Botha, Doret and van Niekerk, Dewald and Wentink, Gideon J. and Coetzee, Christo and Forbes, Kylah and Maartens, Yolanda and Annandale, Elrista and Tshona, Toto and Raju, Emmanuel}, year = {2011}, date = {2011-01-01}, address = {Pretoria}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {techreport} } |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; Madubula, Nomonde ; Van Zyl, Koos ; Visser, Riaan ; Coetzee, Christo ; Fourie, Kristel ; Wentink, Gideon J; Maartens, Yolanda An Alternative Financing Model for Disaster Risk Reduction in South Africa Technical Report Pretoria, 2011. BibTeX | Tags: @techreport{vanNiekerk:2011ti, title = {An Alternative Financing Model for Disaster Risk Reduction in South Africa}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and Madubula, Nomonde and Van Zyl, Koos and Visser, Riaan and Coetzee, Christo and Fourie, Kristel and Wentink, Gideon J. and Maartens, Yolanda}, year = {2011}, date = {2011-01-01}, address = {Pretoria}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {techreport} } |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; Coetzee, Christo Rapid Impact Assessment Report: Veld fires in the Tlokwe Local Municipality on 23 August 2011 Technical Report African Centre for Disaster Studies Potchefstroom, 2011. BibTeX | Tags: @techreport{vanNiekerk:2011us, title = {Rapid Impact Assessment Report: Veld fires in the Tlokwe Local Municipality on 23 August 2011}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and Coetzee, Christo}, year = {2011}, date = {2011-01-01}, address = {Potchefstroom}, institution = {African Centre for Disaster Studies}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {techreport} } |
2010 |
Journal Articles |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; le Roux, Tanya ; Louw, Nico Explosion simulation at SASKO Klerksdorp: Observational research conducted by the NWU Journal Article Disaster Management: Southern Africa, 6 , pp. 1–4, 2010. BibTeX | Tags: @article{vanNiekerk:2010vb, title = {Explosion simulation at SASKO Klerksdorp: Observational research conducted by the NWU}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and le Roux, Tanya and Louw, Nico}, year = {2010}, date = {2010-01-01}, journal = {Disaster Management: Southern Africa}, volume = {6}, pages = {1--4}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
van Niekerk, Dewald More rhetoric and less action? Journal Article Disaster Management: Southern Africa, (September), pp. 1–2, 2010. BibTeX | Tags: @article{vanNiekerk:2010vs, title = {More rhetoric and less action?}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2010}, date = {2010-01-01}, journal = {Disaster Management: Southern Africa}, number = {September}, pages = {1--2}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
Books |
van Niekerk, Dewald A framework for multi-sphere disaster risk reduction: The case of South Africa Book Lambert Academic Publishing, Saarbr"ucken, 2010. BibTeX | Tags: @book{vanNiekerk:2010to, title = {A framework for multi-sphere disaster risk reduction: The case of South Africa}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2010}, date = {2010-01-01}, publisher = {Lambert Academic Publishing}, address = {Saarbr"ucken}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {book} } |
2009 |
Journal Articles |
Van Niekerk, Liezel ; van Niekerk, Dewald Participatory action research: Addressing social vulnerability of rural women through income-generating activities Journal Article Jamba: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies, 2 (2), pp. 127-146, 2009. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: participatory, social vulnerability, women @article{VanNiekerk:2012wk, title = {Participatory action research: Addressing social vulnerability of rural women through income-generating activities}, author = {Van Niekerk, Liezel and van Niekerk, Dewald}, url = {http://jamba.org.za/index.php/jamba/article/view/20}, doi = {10.4102/jamba.v2i2.20}, year = {2009}, date = {2009-01-01}, journal = {Jamba: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {127-146}, abstract = {Participatory action research (PAR) is a robust and versatile research and development strategy. It can be utilised to: understand complex community structures and interaction; determine various types of vulnerability; assist in community capacity building and skills transfer; ensure community participation,and allow for the strengthening of livelihoods. This article focuses on PAR as a strategy, applying various methods and specific participatory tools to understand social vulnerability, within the context of women as rural farm dwellers in the North-West Province, South Africa. It emphasises the need for continued participation and highlights the practical principles and benefits derived from PAR. The PAR process cycles are discussed and parallels are drawn with the practical setting. In conclusion, the article emphasises that the application of the PAR process can make a multi-dimensional contribution towards the development of a community by creating an understanding of social vulnerability, by building capacity and by ensuring participation, and also addresses income-generating activities.}, keywords = {participatory, social vulnerability, women}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Participatory action research (PAR) is a robust and versatile research and development strategy. It can be utilised to: understand complex community structures and interaction; determine various types of vulnerability; assist in community capacity building and skills transfer; ensure community participation,and allow for the strengthening of livelihoods. This article focuses on PAR as a strategy, applying various methods and specific participatory tools to understand social vulnerability, within the context of women as rural farm dwellers in the North-West Province, South Africa. It emphasises the need for continued participation and highlights the practical principles and benefits derived from PAR. The PAR process cycles are discussed and parallels are drawn with the practical setting. In conclusion, the article emphasises that the application of the PAR process can make a multi-dimensional contribution towards the development of a community by creating an understanding of social vulnerability, by building capacity and by ensuring participation, and also addresses income-generating activities. |
Technical Reports |
van Niekerk, Dewald ; Tempelhoff, Johann ; Faling, Willemien ; Thompson, Lynne ; Jordaan, Dawid ; Coetzee, Christo ; Maartens, Yolanda The effects of climate change in two flood laden and drought stricken areas in South Africa Technical Report Potchefstroom, 2009. BibTeX | Tags: @techreport{vanNiekerk:2009us, title = {The effects of climate change in two flood laden and drought stricken areas in South Africa}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald and Tempelhoff, Johann and Faling, Willemien and Thompson, Lynne and Jordaan, Dawid and Coetzee, Christo and Maartens, Yolanda}, year = {2009}, date = {2009-01-01}, address = {Potchefstroom}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {techreport} } |
2008 |
Journal Articles |
van Niekerk, Dewald From disaster relief to disaster risk reduction: a consideration of the evolving international relief mechanism Journal Article TD: The Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa, 4 (2), pp. 355–375, 2008. BibTeX | Tags: @article{vanNiekerk:2008uy, title = {From disaster relief to disaster risk reduction: a consideration of the evolving international relief mechanism}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2008}, date = {2008-01-01}, journal = {TD: The Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {355--375}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
Reid, Pat ; van Niekerk, Dewald A model for a multi-agency response management system (MARMS) for South Africa Journal Article Disaster Prevention and Management, 17 (2), pp. 244–255, 2008. BibTeX | Tags: @article{Reid:2008dk, title = {A model for a multi-agency response management system (MARMS) for South Africa}, author = {Reid, Pat and van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2008}, date = {2008-01-01}, journal = {Disaster Prevention and Management}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {244--255}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
2006 |
Journal Articles |
van Niekerk, Dewald Disaster risk reduction, disaster risk management and disaster management: Academic rhetoric or practical reality? Journal Article Disaster Management: Southern Africa, 3 (1), 2006. BibTeX | Tags: @article{vanNiekerk:2006wc, title = {Disaster risk reduction, disaster risk management and disaster management: Academic rhetoric or practical reality?}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2006}, date = {2006-01-01}, journal = {Disaster Management: Southern Africa}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
2005 |
Masters Theses |
Reid, Pat A Model for an Incident Management System for South Africa Masters Thesis North-West University (Potchefstroom Campus), 2005. BibTeX | Tags: @mastersthesis{Reid:2005tp, title = {A Model for an Incident Management System for South Africa}, author = {Reid, Pat}, year = {2005}, date = {2005-10-01}, address = {Potchefstroom}, school = {North-West University (Potchefstroom Campus)}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {mastersthesis} } |
PhD Theses |
van Niekerk, Dewald A comprehensive framework for multi-sphere disaster risk reduction in South Africa PhD Thesis Unpublished PhD thesis North-West łdots, 2005. BibTeX | Tags: @phdthesis{vanNiekerk:2005tl, title = {A comprehensive framework for multi-sphere disaster risk reduction in South Africa}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2005}, date = {2005-01-01}, school = {Unpublished PhD thesis North-West łdots}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {phdthesis} } |
2004 |
Journal Articles |
Vermaak, Jaco ; van Niekerk, Dewald Disaster risk reduction initiatives in South Africa Journal Article Development Southern Africa, 21 (3), pp. 555–574, 2004. BibTeX | Tags: @article{Vermaak:2004uj, title = {Disaster risk reduction initiatives in South Africa}, author = {Vermaak, Jaco and van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2004}, date = {2004-01-01}, journal = {Development Southern Africa}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {555--574}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
2001 |
Books |
van Niekerk, Dewald Governance, Politics, and Policy in South Africa Book Oxford University Press, USA, 2001. BibTeX | Tags: @book{vanNiekerk:2001tv, title = {Governance, Politics, and Policy in South Africa}, author = {van Niekerk, Dewald}, year = {2001}, date = {2001-01-01}, publisher = {Oxford University Press, USA}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {book} } |