soph bulletin march 2015 - University of Western Cape

SoPH BULLETIN
The UWC School of Public Health Newsletter
March 2015
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
School of Public Health March 2015 Graduates
Corinne Carolissen
Doctorates
Dr Abigail Basson, PhD
Thesis Title: The association between Crohn’s disease
activity, serum 25 (OH)-vitamin status, the disease-associated
environmental risk Factors and the variability of Crohn’s
disease phenotype in the Western Cape population, South
Africa
Supervisor: Prof Elizabeth C Swart
Co-Supervisor: Dr Gillian Watermeyer
In November 2014, on a beautiful sunny day with clear Cape Town blue
skies, I turned in the final signed copies of my dissertation to my supervisor,
Professor Rina Swart. After four years of toil and sweat, as well as countless
times of repeatedly asking myself; Why? Why am I doing my PhD? Why am
I doing this to myself? Why have I allowed my laptop, my flash stick
thingy, printed papers and MS Word to become the most important factors
in my life??- After all that, I was finally done! I must admit, I was sorely
disappointed that the heavens didn‟t part, with trumpet-playing angels to proclaim this
monumental occasion of mine.
I am sure that I am not the only doctoral researcher who has felt this way, perhaps the
existential crisis and self-imposed-doom we all experience at some point during the PhD, should
become mandatory as a final chapter of the dissertation, if anything, to provide, some comedic
relief for our examiners.
For me, the journey had become such a big part of my life, that in the end I was referring to it
as my extremely time consuming boyfriend, who went by the name of „Pee Haitch Dee‟. Quite
fitting considering that, I used to wake up thinking about him, go to sleep thinking about him,
dream about him, and really just plan most every minute of my day around him! But I am not
complaining about this relationship (nor am I crazy), because in the end, it was a wonderful, life
changing opportunity, that taught me oh so very much.
At this stage, I am also finally able to answer that baffling question of: Why am I doing this?
– in fact, the answer was simpler than I thought. I do it…I did it… to be happy!!
For instance, I remember the feeling when my proposal was first approved by Higher
Degrees, and I know how happy I feel when I have shared my experiences with other PhD
students, or how happy I felt when my first paper was accepted for publication. You are where you
are for a reason, and there is always bigger picture.
So now I pose a new question: How often do you feel fortunate? Fortunate not because you
have won something or because you have bought a new house, but because you embarked on a
journey that was meaningful to you, a journey that challenged every aspect of who you are, and
you succeeded.
Biosketch: Abigail Raffner Basson received her BSc in Dietetics from Rutgers University in
2003 and her MSc in Clinical Nutrition from New York University in 2005, becoming a member
of the Kappa Omicron Nu Nutrition Honors society based on academic merit. Thereafter she
spent extensive time working as a clinical dietitian in the ICU and CCU of a large teaching
hospital in New York City. Upon moving to South Africa, Abigail worked as a dietitian locum
before she became a faculty appointed lecturer in the Dietetics Department of the University of
the Western Cape, where she continues to teach the surgery module of Therapeutic Nutrition, as
well as supervise the Dietetic internship surgery rotation at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape
Town. Abigail also holds a postgraduate qualification in Nutrigenomics from the University of
Arizona (USA) and teaches the Nutrigenomics course offered at UWC which she developed for the
university in 2010. Abigail supervises postgraduate research students, the first of whom
graduated this year (2012-2014) cum laude from the University of Stellenbosch. She now serves
on the Higher Degrees Committee for the University of the Western Cape.
In addition to clinical nutrition, Abigail holds a strong interest in the pathophysiology and
therapeutic management of Crohn‟s disease for which she has authored a number of publications
and serving as an editorial board member of repute. Her PhD research titled „The Association
Between Crohn’s Disease Activity, Serum 25(OH)-Vitamin D Status, The Disease-Associated
Environmental Risk Factors And The Variability Of Crohn’s Disease Phenotype In The Western
Cape Population, South Africa‟, comprised of four publications and was and supervised by
Professor Rina Swart and co-supervised by Dr. Gillian Watermeyer. Abigail is passionate about
continuing post-doctoral research in Crohn‟s disease, vitamin D and the gut microbiome.
Dr John Mandisarisa, PhD
Thesis Title: Predictive Factors of Adherence
to Antiretroviral Therapy in a Rural and an
Urban Setting in Zimbabwe
Supervisor: Prof Brian van Wyk
When I started communicating with colleagues in 2007
that I had a desire to become a PhD, there were mixed
feelings, comments and pieces of advice. Because I was really
determined to become one, I started to scan the internet for
possibilities. After sending my rudimentary concept note to
several universities, I received communication from
Professor Harry Haussler, that I could go ahead and process
my registration with UWC since he would gladly supervise
my journey. I processed my registration for 2008 and started
developing the proposal protocol with him. After a lot of hard
work, I received a communication from him that he could no longer continue to supervise me
since he had left the university and was now committed elsewhere. My journey had hit a dead
end. I sent communication to the university almost incessantly until in late 2009 Prof Brian Van
Wyk reached out to me and expressed that he could be my supervisor and of course we had to
start afresh. The journey with Prof Brian Van Wyk has been great but not without challenges. I
have learnt a few lessons that I can share with fellow and prospective PhD students:
Building and nurturing relationships: I learnt that the supervisor and relationships
with him was critical, it was often the relationships with others that assisted me through my
journey. I benefited from encouragement from fellow students, cooperation of lab staff and clinic
staff, not to mention the support and understanding of family and friends.
Striking a healthy school-work-life balance: There were periods when I struggled to
manage a healthy school-work-life balance. I had a very demanding full time job that asked for
24hours of my day metaphorically speaking. The school work also required my undivided
attention. My family felt neglected in the process and friends labeled me antisocial. I had to be
innovative to respond to all three very demanding aspects of my life by developing strategies to
create balance such as family protected time exercise, social activities to help maintain motivation
and a sense of progress.
Learning to be proactive: I have always expressed the desire to be intentional and take
ownership of my doctoral journey, and define my success taking charge and working strategically.
I take pride in championing this cause and cherish the unfailing guidance and encouragement
that I got from Prof Brian throughout the journey. There are times I would appear to have lost it
due to pressure from the other domains, but because I was committed and kept focused on the
ultimate goal, I would rise up and push towards the goal.
Developing new skills and identities: I would like to appreciate the skills and learning
that I acquired, and the development that I underwent, for example, coming to think like a
researcher, developing analytical skills, developing specific research skills and communicating
research findings in ways that are appropriate within the public health discipline. Also important
in the experience was developing perseverance, maintaining motivation and determination. In
sum the doctoral experience was more than the accumulation of skills - it was a process of identity
formation as a scholar in the public health discipline.
A future beyond the doctorate: I have already started to imagine what I need to do now
that I have accomplished and become a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health. My thoughts
continue to hover around the possibility of a postdoctoral fellowship either in training or research
in an area of public health interest.
Master of Public Health
ANDREWS, Donavan Mark
Thesis: The integration of clinical forensic medicine into the district
health system in the Western Cape
Supervisor: Prof Helen Schneider
Thank you SOPH for changing my life and becoming the vehicle for me to
grow as a health manager.
BUSINGE, Bitamazire Charles (MPH cum laude)
The risk factors of HIV infection among antenatal mothers in King
Sabata District Municipality of the Eastern Cape Province of South
Africa
Supervisor: Ms Verona Mathews
Thesis:
This study was motivated by the observation that the prevalence of HIV in
several Sub Saharan African countries in the past 10 years has shown a steady
decline while it has remained rather high in South Africa. This, one could
hypothesize, may be secondary to a high incidence of HIV despite the concerted effort of
HIV prevention in South Africa. The study was an effort to identify the circumstances under
which women in reproductive age are at increased risk of incident HIV so as to adapt
current prevention efforts to the most crucial risk factors propagating the local epidemic
within the study area which is in rural Eastern Cape, South Africa.
It was a joy to engage in long distance learning at the SOPH UWC. This however would
not have been so without the steadfast support of our lecturers, especially my thesis
supervisor, and the student administrators who ensured that study materials and
assignments were delivered on time. One strategy was to choose modules that fitted with my
busy work schedule and a research topic that was close to my routine work of health care to
women in reproductive age. The program introduced me to new approaches to health care,
which at times required more time to internalize given my background as a clinician, yet are
useful in assessing health needs of communities and designing appropriate interventions.
HUSSELMANN, Karin
Thesis: Factors Influencing the Use of the Female Condom in Karasburg,
Namibia: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Supervisor: Ms Suraya Mohamed
Co-Supervisor: Dr Liezille Jacobs
My journey as an MPH student was a long, complex and painful one. It was
not easy to balance my professional life as a Registered Nurse, being a pastor‟s
wife, mother to my three teenage kids and wife and soul mate to my husband. However, I
finished the journey successfully with a thankful heart.
My study aimed at highlighting the factors that influence the use of the female condom
in southern Namibia, specifically the Karasburg district where I am working as a nurse in
the special diseases program. I am looking forward to use my newly acquired academic
skills and public health knowledge to do more operational research in the area of HIV and
TB in the district, and at the same time hope to suggest key changes to guidelines and
protocols in management of HIV and TB in the country.
JUMA, Betty
An exploratory study to assess the roles and challenges
of community health workers in delivering the Kenya
Essential Package for the Health to young children
affected by HIV/AIDS in Kisumu West District, Nyanza
province, Kenya
Supervisor: Prof Uta Lehmann
Thesis:
My research focused on highlighting the real happenings regarding
Community Health Workers‟ (CHW) work regarding young children
affected by HIV and AIDS. Often these young children face neglect internal and external
from their homes/families and face enormous barriers and challenges in seeking and
acquiring health services. With a Community Health Strategy framework set by the Ministry
of Health (MoH) it was expected that access to health care at family/community was
resolved with CHW at the core of it…. but alas!! With the review of this strategy soon being
conducted the MoH, already as a national Technical Working Group (TWG) member, I will
use my acquired skills and knowledge evidence from my research to inform the process.
My studies as an internal student would not have been possible were it not for the
support and mentoring from my supervisor and student administrators. They were
particularly patient with me and went out of their way to help me complete the course. I will
forever be grateful to them.
KRUGER, James Andrew
Thesis: Community perspectives on comprehensive primary health care and
creche services for an agricultural rural migrant community in De Doorns
in the Western Cape
Supervisor: Prof Christina Zarowsky
Distance learning and post graduate studies are very difficult as it requires discipline,
commitment and support from your family and colleagues. I would suggest (if possible) that
first year students adopt a mentor from a student that is a year ahead of them to provide you
with technical guidance. Time management is essential if you decide to embark on this
degree as well as realistic pacing and goal setting as you move forward. I enjoyed the contact
time (winter and summer schools) immensely as this allowed space to engage, influence and
learn from other scholars and lecturers. I have to thank SoPH for supporting me both
academically and administratively.
My research topic is very relevant to my working environment as understanding
migrants and reacting to their needs should improve the health outcomes in the district
where I live and work. The study of public health enabled me to engage colleagues and
influence decision-making to improve the lives of the poor and disenfranchised
communities, especially the migrants who generally find themselves on the fringes of
society. Using the evidence from my study I should be able to set up networks to consult and
influence various stakeholders to start up at least one sustainable project. My study also
paves the way for more in depth analysis of my data as well as in depth consultative focus
groups.
LIYALA, Pamela
Perceptions of women regarding the place of child delivery and
how the perceptions influence the choice of delivery place among
women utilizing antenatal care services at Ngong Sub-District
Hospital, Kajiado County, Kenya
Supervisor: Dr Ruth Stern
Thesis:
As I look back on my journey at UWC – a journey that started with small uncertain
steps, I am grateful that it has turned out to be a wonderful journey! Surrounded by
numerous demands of life and with a desire to fulfil my dream of being a Public Health
Specialist, the Distance Learning Programme at UWC was a perfect choice. Learning was
much fun through interactive sessions with a strong component of knowledge application.
To succeed as a distant student, I learnt that self-discipline and determination are the
greatest companions through this wonderful journey. It was indeed worth it. I would highly
recommend it to everyone.
As a Public Health Specialist, I am currently supporting Health Systems to deliver
quality health care services and ensuring that those who need the services have access to the
services.
MACHEVO, Sonia Geraldo
Thesis: Lessons learned during implementation of new Community
Health Worker Program: Experiences from one rural district in
Southern Mozambique
Supervisor: Prof Uta Lehmann
I‟m grateful for the opportunity of following the MPH programme at UWC,
which was a wonderful and unique experience. Studying at UWC SOPH by
distance learning has been a challenging experience, given the need for a thorough
balance between the rigorous and demanding studies, professional activities and
duties as a mother. I have to admit that studying at a distance was not easy. Without strong
discipline, commitment and efficiency, it wouldn‟t have been possible. For that I thank God.
It has been a rewarding and enriching experience mainly gained during the summer
courses, as well as from the continuous support from the dedicated and skilful group of
teachers from UWC, to whom I‟m thankful. I‟m convinced that my knowledge and skills
have been largely improved, and will contribute enormously to my future activities as a
lecturer, researcher and servant of communities for better health care.
MAVHUNGA, Farai
Factors associated with the delayed culture conversion among
patients being treated for multi-drug resistant tuberculosis in
Namibia
Supervisor: Prof Brian van Wyk
Co-Supervisor: Dr Jon Rohde
Thesis:
This is my second qualification as a distance learning student and it doesn‟t get
any easier; I found that the balance between work, family and study was even more
demanding than before since I had a few more work projects that required my “after-hours”
time as well.
The theory part was a bit more straightforward since it was primarily desk work which I
could accomplish while I was travelling (my current position requires me to frequently
travel nationally and internationally). The fieldwork for the mini-thesis was significantly
more challenging; but the support and guidance from the supervisors was very helpful.
Overall it was a very rewarding experience and I would recommend future part time
students to consider thesis topics that are in line with their current work responsibilities; I
found it being very beneficial to have the basic background regarding my area of research.
MUGWANEZA, Placidie
Thesis: Assessment of in-service training needs of health workers in the
Prevention of mother to child transmission program in a district
in Rwanda
Supervisor: Prof Uta Lehmann
Co-supervisor: Prof Debra Jackson
Pursuing the MPH program at UWC as a distance learning student was one of
the best opportunities I had in my career development in public health field. With
this program, I was able to keep working and stay with my family. Even if it was not easy due to
the combination of responsibilities it was an interesting experience. Self-motivation, being
responsible and good time management are skills that allowed me to complete the program
successfully. UWC staff, administration, study conveners and my supervisors were very
supporting throughout the program.
My mini thesis is a contribution to my daily responsibilities as HIV prevention manager,
findings give a good understanding of what training needs are among health care workers in the
area of PMTCT program and an orientation where to improve program outcomes.
NCANA, Lundi
Assessment of the management of virologic failure in patients
on first-line regimen of antiretroviral treatment in Nkonkobe
sub-district
Supervisor: Prof Brian van Wyk
Thesis:
Being granted the opportunity to study at UWC has been an honour and a
privilege for me in view of a number of applicants who wish to study Master of
Public Health through the university. Reflecting on the previous three years is
not an easy task, having miscarried on the first year and lost a son on the last year. However,
aspiring to reach a goal supplemented by lecturers who always go the extra mile and an admin
staff to assist you kept me headed up. The module guides have been like a lecture that kept on
whispering on my ears, and made study life easier for me considering the difficulties that
accompany distance learning.
In my motivational letter I said that I intended to study master of public health to broaden
my horizon in the field of research, and public health at large. Today I can confidently say I have
attained those goals! Currently I am working for ECDOH-HIV&AIDS and STIs directorate, the
knowledge and experience I gained throughout the course will assist me to improve the health
services that we render to the people of the Eastern Cape.
To the School of Public Health staff from the general assistants who prepared peanut butter
sandwiches during Summer and Winter schools, the admin staff whose inboxes we relentlessly
flooded with unnecessary emails, and to all our lecturers, may the world be as kind to you as you
have been to us. Thank you all!
NDAYI, Kululwa
Thesis:
Vendor's perceptions of food products they sell and their
willingness to sell foods that may prevent childhood
obesity in primary schools of Khayelitsha Township
Supervisor: Prof Thandi Puoane
Co-Supervisor: Dr Anniza de Villiers
The aim of my study was to describe vendors‟ perceptions of food products
they sell and to explore their willingness to sell foods that may prevent childhood obesity. I
developed a keen interest on this topic since I began working at School of Public Health, in the
Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology (PURE) Study. A study which focuses on people‟s
lifestyle and risk factors contributing to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. I have
discovered that most of our participants especially from poor rural sites are either suffering from
chronic diseases, such as hypertension diabetes, stroke and obesity or strongly exposed to risk
factors of these diseases.
My experience as a student and as an employee was challenging. At times I felt like giving in
but my family, friends and supervisors were very supportive and gave me courage to move
forward. I was also inspired by a colleague “Boniswa Jwili” who is a mother, a wife, employee and
a student. I said to myself this woman is old and has so much on her plate but that does not stop
her, and she is doing well, so what can stop me?
NSUBUGA, Fredrich Mangasi
Case study of reporting needle stick injuries among health care
workers in Luwero district- Uganda
Supervisor: Prof Christina Zarowsky
Thesis:
“You cannot finish what you have not started.” The only way I knew I can
finish this programme is to begin on it, despite the doubts and the busy schedule I
had, I decided to give it a shot. When I look back at the start, I can‟t imagine now I am
talking about a successful end result. I commend the genius of the programme design. If not
for them, my dream to become a public health specialist would have been shattered. The
flexibility and study pace that suits varying needs was a superbly thoughtout idea that many
fulltime workers like me should make use of to take up this programme. The commitment of
the lecturing/facilitating staff with the support of excellent programme administrators,
encourages you to reach the end however lazy you might feel along the way.
Needle stick injuries still pose a great challenge to many health care workers and yet the
majority opt not to report on their existence. The District health manager where the
research was undertaken has embraced the findings and realised the blame game is not a
solution to the problem. A project is being designed to enable intervention that will make a
change.
If your dream is to make a change in your community and improve on the well-being of
the society, but time doesn‟t look to be abundant on your side, taking up the MPH Distance
learning programme at the University of Western Cape will get you there.
PFAFF, Colin
Thesis: Assessment of hypertension and diabetes programme support and
service delivery in two rural districts in Malawi
Supervisor: Dr Vera Scott
Co-Supervisor: Prof Risa Hoffman
I have been leading a HIV support programme in four rural districts in Northern
Malawi. I found the distance learning MPH a great encouragement and source of
strength to my work in Malawi. The programme was very practical to do in a remote
setting.
My MPH research enabled me to look at the issue of integrating non communicable
disease care into HIV care. Having completed this degree will help me apply public health
principles in working with National Health systems in Malawi. My thanks to all the faculty
and staff at University of Western Cape for the great support.
SEBASTIAN, Beverley Ann
Exploring psychological well-being among orphans from child
headed households in the context of the socially, economically
and politically unstable environment of Zimbabwe
Supervisor: Dr Thubelihle Mathole
Co-Supervisor: Ms Emma Chademana
Thesis:
The MPH degree was stimulating. From the onset I integrated what I
learned into my day to day work which was very rewarding.
During the three years my life changed dramatically - I had a baby and took on a couple
of very demanding professional roles. Finding the balance between family, work and studies
was always difficult but family and friends saw me through.
SIMUYEMBA, Moses Chikoti
Thesis: Caring for the Carer: a Study of Burnout Amongst Doctors at
the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
Supervisor: Dr Thubelihle Mathole
Dr. Moses Simuyemba is currently a member of the Department of Public
Health at the University of Zambia School of Medicine, as well as M&E
Specialist for the Medical Education Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and the
Southern Africa Consortium for Research Excellence (SACORE).
SONDASHI, Ilitongo Saasa
Exploration of the factors related to ensuring the maintenance of
quality of medicines in government health centres in Lusaka,
Zambia
Supervisor: Dr Hazel Bradley
Thesis:
Distance learning had been a challenge as being a working wife, mother and
student can be a plateful. But at the end of it all, strong support from family,
colleagues and of course the UWC helped me achieve my ambition. As a district
pharmacist, studying public health helped me realize that much money spent on the
purchase of medicines can be saved if various stakeholders did their part in ensuring all
people lived in a healthy environment and were empowered with knowledge to maintain it.
I also appreciated the role held by having strong working logistics systems that ensure
medicines and medical supplies needed are always available in the quality intended. Having
studied towards a Masters in Public health, I always find myself thinking „outside the box‟
for evidence based solutions when faced with a work related challenge.
It has been an honour to learn and graduate from one of the top ten universities in
Africa, The University of the Western Cape.
Post Graduate Diploma in Public Health
AMWAALWA, Frieda
I enjoy learning on distance. I had great opportunity to focus on research. The
administration team and the Lecturers were very helpful, attending to all the enquiries and
all the learning materials were sent on time. Distance learning helped me to prioritise my
time, study and work on my own.
BURGER, Gertruida
Distance learning requires commitment, proper time control and lots of selfdiscipline. Although you have to sacrifice a lot of things in your life, the reward you
get with good marks and improved knowledge is worthwhile. Faith in the Almighty
and a good support system at work and home is crucial to ensure success through
distance learning.
HLAHLA, Elsie
I found Distance Education as the most convenient way for furthering
education whilst one remains a full time employee, since full time studies
without a paying job were not a viable option for me. The amount of work remains the same
with that of full time studies and with good planning around office duties, travels to remote
rural areas with development work, coupled with on-line coaching from the lectures and
help from other students the studies are do-able. Getting to work on an assignment with
other students that you never met before was both scary and very rewarding.
IGBOERIKA, Ekene
At first, I was sceptical about the programme. I knew it could work but I
wasn't sure how. The structure and organization of the distance learning
programme made it possible that I did not miss so much about face-to-face
contact with my lecturers and colleagues. The module guides created a graphic
experience of my lecturers' presence. I could hear them speaking to me in the
guides. There was a kind of personal relationship I developed with my module
conveners that ordinarily I would have thought impossible in a distance learning
program. The conveners were very quick to respond to my questions with clarifications. I
loved my experience and am already telling more persons about this great opportunity
provided by the UWC.
KAKORORO, Edward
Studying at the UWC at distance was a challenge. The fact that I have a permanent
employnent which requires travelling, working during weekends and after hours was hectic.
The knowledge I have gained through the Public health course at UWC- School of Public
Health had contributed to my profession as a Public Health Practitioner . The concept of
Public Health which I had mastered during my 2years study at School of Public Health will
be able me to contribute to my country (Namibia) 2030 vision and to the mandate of the
Ministry of Health and social services which are to promote and protect health of all
Namibians and other nations residing or visiting Namibia.
Thanks to the dedicated Academic and Admin staff of the School of Public Health for
their contribution towards my PGD study.
LETEKA, Polo
It was hard at first but I got to learn to be organised and have time table of
sessions in all the modules. Develop a skill to read fast. But more importantly the
module guides were of great help as well as the summer and winter classes.
MAKWINDI, Nyembesi
MASVOSVA, Bernard
Completing my PGD was challenging but very rewarding as it challenges one's
thinking and long set perceptions about health. Now I almost always think about
social determinants of ill health, thanks to UWC distance learning programme.
MHANGO, Rachael
One thing that I learnt as a distance learner was the need for discipline, lots of
hard work and fun after working hours in order to achieve this qualification.
MOGAPI, Mompati
The PGD in public health was a very interesting programme for me as it helped
me to appreciate most of the challenges faced by the health sector in my country.
Being a family man with 2 under 5 kids and working full time challenged me to have a
lot of determination, discipline and focus to finish the PGD in 2 years as a part time
student with UWC
MUTONDWA, Rabelani
It has been an extraordinary journey, which has been both challenging and
rewarding. I am blessed and honoured to be part of the School of Public Health‟s
alumni. To the academic & administrative staff - Thank you so much.
NYAMA, Lainah
One thing that I learnt as a distance learner was the need for discipline,
lots of hard work and fun after working hours in order to achieve this
qualification
SEPTEMBER, Elindi
It is not difficult to share my distance learning experience with you. In life,
most of the things start of as a challenge. I was lucky to receive excellent support
from lecturer and especially, Corinne and Janine. They were really just one call
away and their response was always swiftly and that kept me going. The course in
particular was a life changing experience, because it had an impact on my daily
outlook towards life. In short, I am cherishing life so much more than I did before.
SIWENDU, Mamela
STEFANUS, Frieda
The PGDPH has broadened my understanding of health and its social
determinants. Although there were times I felt like quitting the programme, I am
looking back proudly today that I endured up to the end.
THOMAS, Tarryn-Inge
Prof Richard Laing‟s Visit to 2015 SOPH Summer School
Nondumiso Ncube and Hazel Bradley
Prof Richard Laing, an Extraordinary
Professor at the UWC’s School of Public
Health (SoPH) visited the Summer School
which ran from the 2nd to the 28th of
February, 2015. During his visit he was
actively involved in different areas and
aspects of running the Summer school, and
made great and valuable contributions.
Listed below are some of the activities he was involved in:
1. MODULE WRITING
Rational Medicines Use (RMU) Module
Prof Laing was involved in the RMU module which was given as short course in the
2014 Winter School; and will run again in the 2015 Winter School. Though the short course
will run, processes of having the module run as a full online module in the second semester
of 2015 are well underway. Professor Laing was therefore involved in the planning,
development, and writing of the online modules with staff from SOPH, School of Pharmacy
and MSH/SIAPS.
Medicines Supply Management (MSM) Module
The module was offered as a short course in the 2014 Winter School and will again be
offered this year. Though processes of having it run as an online semester module are
underway, they are not as advanced as the RMU module. Prof Laing will not be directly
involved in running the module but he made a great contribution during the planning of
writing the modules from his vast experience working in the pharmaceutical field.
Analysing Pharmaceutical Systems (APS) Module
Prof Laing spent a lot of time working on this module which will run as a semester
module from 2016. Most of it was written and is being finalised with the materials‟
developer.
2. TEACHING SUPPORT
Assisting in teaching Quantitative Methods
In the last week of the Summer School, Prof Laing taught sampling methods for the
quantitative methods module run by Dr Gavin Reagon.
3. RESEARCH / PhD SUPERVISION
Exploring possibility of supervising a PhD student
Prof Laing had intensive discussions around supervising Nondumiso Ncube for her
PhD in the area of non-communicable diseases.
Providing assistance to a PhD student
Prof Laing had a number of meetings with a PhD student, Bvudzai Magadzire, and
provided assistance and support towards her PhD.
4. BOSTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL of PUBLIC HEALTH LINKS
Establishing Collaboration with the Central Dispensing Unit (CDU)
Prof Laing met with the CDU management to explore possibilities of them allowing the
SOPH to do research using their data. The meetings were successful and as such, an intern
will be coming from Boston University in May to start collecting data from the CDU.
Joint Staff Publications
The experience of cash transfers in
alleviating childhood poverty in South Africa:
Mothers' experiences of the Child Support
Grant
Wanga Zembe-Mkabile, Rebecca Surrender, David Sanders, Debra Jackson
and Tanya Doherty
Abstract
Cash transfer (CT) programmes are increasingly being used as policy instruments to
address child poverty and child health outcomes in developing countries. As the largest
cash-transfer programme in Africa, the South African Child Support Grant (CSG) provides
an important opportunity to further understand how a CT of its kind works in a developing
country context. We explored the experiences and views of CSG recipients and nonrecipients from four diverse settings in South Africa. Four major themes emerged from the
data: barriers to accessing the CSG; how the CSG is utilised and the ways in which it makes
a difference; the mechanisms for supplementing the CSG; and the impact of not receiving
the grant. Findings show that administrative factors continue to be the greatest barrier to
CSG receipt, pointing to the need for further improvements in managing queues, waiting
times and coordination between departments for applicants trying to submit their
applications. Many recipients, especially those where the grant was the only source of
income, acknowledged the importance of the CSG, while also emphasising its inadequacy.
To maximise their impact, CT programmes such as the CSG need to be fully funded and
form part of a broader basket of poverty alleviation strategies.
http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17441692.2015.1007471#abstract
The role of „hidden‟ community volunteers in communitybased health service delivery platforms: examples from subSaharan Africa
Natalie Leon, David Sanders, Wim Van Damme, Donela Besada1, Emmanuelle Daviaud,
Nicholas P. Oliphant, Rocio Berzal, John Mason and Tanya Doherty
Abstract
Community-based research on child survival in sub-Saharan Africa has focused on the
increased provision of curative health services by a formalised cadre of lay community
health workers (CHWs), but we have identified a particular configuration, that deserves
closer scrutiny. We identified a two-tiered CHW system, with the first tier being the lessor
known or „hidden‟ community/village level volunteers and the second tier being formal,
paid CHWs, in Ethiopia, Mali, and Niger. Whilst the disease-focused tasks of the formal
CHW tier may be more amenable to classic epidemiological surveillance, we postulate that
understanding the relationship between formalised CHWs and volunteer cadres, in terms of
scope, location of practice and ratio to population, would be important for a comprehensive
evaluation of child survival in these countries. We report on the findings from our joint
qualitative and quantitative investigations, highlighting the need to recognise the „hidden‟
contribution of volunteers. We need to better characterize the volunteers‟ interaction with
community-based and primary care services and to better understand ways to improve the
volunteer systems with the right type of investments. This is particularly important for
considering the models for scale-up of CHWs in sub-Saharan Africa.
http://www.globalhealthaction.net/index.php/gha/article/view/27214
SOPH‟s Corinne Carolissen Wins Dean‟s Award for Outstanding Service
Congratulating Corinne (centre) from
left are Magda Van Vuuren, Cornelia Fester
Diane Gahiza and Althea George
SMART2D: An International Type 2 Diabetes Study
The International Study Team
from Karolinska Institute (Sweden),
University of the Western Cape
(South Africa), Uppsala University
(Sweden), Makerere University
(Uganda), Collaborative Care Systems
Finland (Finland) and the Institute of
Tropical Medicine (Belgium)
The South African Civil Society Information Service
South Africa's New Food and Nutrition Policy Fails to
Address Constitutional Right to Food
Busiso Moyo
27 Feb 2015Picture credit: Grow and Resist
Everyone seems to have an interest in food
policy these days, from the Bill and Melinda Gates
Foundation with its „Alliance for a Green
Revolution in Africa‟, to the G8 with its „New
Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition‟, to social
movements, civil society networks and those who
simply care about what they eat. Of course, some
voices are more powerful than others. It is for this
reason that movements of peasants and other
small-scale food providers from around the world
decided to amplify their voices in the midst of an
onslaught of neoliberal policies by forming the
transnational
agrarian
movement
La
Via
Campesina in 1993, coining what we‟ve come to know as “food sovereignty”.
Today, the concept of „food sovereignty‟ is broadly defined as “the rights of peoples to
healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through ecologically sound and
sustainable methods and their right to define their own food and agriculture systems”. Food
sovereignty has since served as an alternative paradigm to the current global „food security‟
narrative. However, it is „food security‟ that is on everyone‟s lips. Governments are
concerned to ensure it, international organizations like the United Nations Food and
Agriculture Organisation (FAO) are keen to measure and promote it.
According to an Oxfam report, currently there are approximately 14 million people in
South Africa who experience hunger and 1.5 million children under the age of six who are
stunted by chronic malnutrition.
Rather than problematizing food and its distribution, food security policy and planning
in South Africa is dominated by discourses of scarcity and production. The trouble with the
way that food scarcity is operationalized in various policy documents such as the National
Development Plan (NDP) and the now forsaken Integrated Food Security Strategy (IFSS) is
that it tends to obscure the uneven relationships that underlie the persistence and
deepening of hunger and malnutrition, past, present and future.
South Africa has recently developed a national Food and Nutrition Security Policy.
Gazetted in August 2014, led by the Departments of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
(DAFF) and Social Development (DSD), the policy has been drafted under a veil of secrecy
and contains little credible vision for a nourishing food system for all. It must be understood
that food is where many issues converge - inequality, climate change, globalisation, hunger,
commodity speculation, urbanisation, health and so on.
Constitutionally speaking, “access” to food is not sufficient; people also need access to
productive resources and most importantly, to power that enables them to challenge
existing social and economic relations: establishing an alternative development path rooted
in the notion of food sovereignty.
Availability and access to food incorporates both production and distribution systems,
including the market as a mechanism for distribution and identification of demand. At
present, food insecurity is characterised by some people not having enough food rather than
there not being enough. In a capitalist market economy the flow of food is away from areas
of food insecurity and towards areas of effective demand - a case in point being the bread
price fixing scandal, which struck a blow to the poorest of South Africans.
Put another way, a focus on scarcity as the cause of hunger and malnutrition today and
of food crises in the future tends to conceal the generalised and on-going crises of industrial
capitalist agriculture and its uneven development model.
First introduced at the 1974 World Food Congress, emerging at a time of rising energy
costs, turmoil in global grain markets and increasing levels of hunger - the concept of „food
security‟ has since succumbed to the free market order that has characterised the post-Cold
War period, bringing about a shift in the discourse. By the 1996, World Food Summit the
concept had been relegated to individual and household food access, supplied through trade
and markets, rather than through state-governed production and distribution. Regrettably,
the 1996 narrative continues to dominate the right to food discourse to this day.
„Food security exists when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to
sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an
active and healthy lifestyle.‟ There is no question that this is a laudable goal. There are
questions, however, about the ways in which this broad definition is operationalized and
measured. For instance, what does food security policy address, what does it ignore and
what does it conceal?
Civil society organisations like the Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII)
have taken up the task of studying the progressive realisation of the right to food in South
Africa. SPII has created a 3-step methodology that seeks to unpack this crucial question of
food security – integrating policy and budget analysis with statistical indicators to monitor
and evaluate progressive realisation of the right to food in the country.
In his book, Reclaiming Food Security, Michael Carolan describes the problem as a
decades long challenge where food security has been framed as a question of agricultural
productivity, food calories and free trade. But as the promise of genuine food security
through neoliberal reform has gone unfulfilled, a growing chorus of scholars, civil society
organisations and social movements are critical of food security as a concept and a set of
policies. They argue that because it says nothing about where food comes from or how and
under what conditions it is produced and consumed, food security offers little in the way of
alleviating hunger, and even less for the contradictions of hunger and malnourishment in
the global agri-food system.
While the right to food discourse enjoys significant protection at the international,
regional and national level, such protection has not been translated adequately into the
enjoyment of the right to food in individual countries, including South Africa. Food
production has undergone massive commodification, with a shift away from control by
small-scale farmers towards international food conglomerates and powerful corporations,
coupled with the rise of massive food retailers, genetically modified seed monopolies and
fast food chains.
As the world shifts from the Millennium Development Goals towards Sustainable
Development Goals, development economist, Sakiko Fukuda-Parr argues that South Africa
has missed the opportunity to take the lead in the global food discourse, despite being one
of just twenty countries in the world with a Constitution that recognizes a justiciable right to
food.
The proposed food policy shies away from confronting capital interests within the food
value-chain. Apart from acknowledging that the emerging agricultural sector is in need of
assistance, the policy is silent on the influence of big-business in the food system.
Cognisance must be taken that business too, has obligations to respect, protect and in the
case of violations provide remedies for the realisation of human rights. With a National
Assembly on Food Sovereignty being hosted by the Co-operative and Policy Alternative
Centre this very weekend, it is time to rally around the call for Food Sovereignty
http://sacsis.org.za/site/article/2296
New Staff: Eveline Muika Kabongo Joins SOPH
My name is Eveline Muika Kabongo. I completed my B.Sc. in
Nursing at Institut Superieur Medical de Mbujimayi in Congo DRC,
and MPhil in Statistics and Population Studies at the University of the
Western Cape.
Currently I am working as Research Assistant on the SMART2D
Diabetes Research Project at SOPH under the supervision of Dr. Peter
Delobelle and Professor Thandi Puoane.
Acknowledgements: Thanks for contributions to the March 2015 Bulletin from: Corinne
Carolissen, Nondumiso Ncube, Hazel Bradley, Tanya Doherty, Eveline Kabongo and
David Sanders. The articles from SACSIS and the Cape Times are acknowledged.