Page 4 - Research Report 2025.1

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This study employed a qualitative research approach to investigate how rural governance processes and policy implementation shape livelihoods,particularly in the context of disasters and pandemics.The research was conducted in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality with permission from the Municipality. The study aimed to capture rich, contextual insights by engaging with a diverse group of participants, including municipal authorities, community members, traditional leaders, and civil society representatives.
A purposive sampling strategy was used to recruit participants who had relevant knowledge or experience concerning rural development, disaster response, and local governance. This ensured that the data reflected informed perspectives from individuals directly involved in policy and implementation processes, as well as those affected by them.
Data collection was carried out between May and July 2024 and comprised a series of eleven semi-structured, one-on-one interviews with key informants. These interviews were complemented by two focus group discussions, consisting of eight and ten participants respectively, which facilitated a broader dialogue on shared community experiences and challenges. These discussions were instrumental in exploring the dynamics between governance institutions and rural communities, especially in times of crisis.
Throughout the research process, ethical standards were rigorously upheld. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of KwaZulu- Natal Humanities and Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee [Ref No: HSSREC/00004560/22]. Participation was entirely voluntary, and all participants were fully informed about the study’s objectives and procedures. To ensure confidentiality and anonymity, no identifiable information was recorded or shared, and all data were securely stored in encrypted Word documents following transcription and verification.
To analyse the qualitative data, the study followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework for thematic analysis. This involved becoming familiar with the data, generating initial codes, identifying and reviewing emerging themes, defining key concepts, and ultimately producing a coherent analysis. To support transparency and enhance data management, the analysis was conducted using NVivo software,which facilitated systematic coding and organization of themes.This methodological approach enabled the research to uncover nuanced insights into local governance structures, institutional responses to disaster, and the lived experiences of rural communities navigating development and recovery.
Data analysis methods
The data collected for this study is analysed using thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach. This involves identifying, analyzing and reporting patterns within the data in a systematic way.
Phases of Thematic Analysis
Familiarisation
This phase involves thoroughly immersing oneself in the data, reading and re-reading the transcripts to become familiar with the content. This step is crucial for understanding the depth and breadth of the data before coding begins.
Generating Initial Codes
After familiarisation, codes are generated systematically across the data set. This involves labelling sections of the data that appear relevant to the research objectives, particularly those reflecting resilience, governance and policy implementation.
Searching for Themes
In this phase, the identified codes are examined and grouped into broader themes. Themes could include aspects such as institutional resilience, community recovery, governance challenges and policy gaps in rural areas.
Reviewing Themes
The themes are refined by checking if they work in relation to the coded extracts and the entire data set. Any inconsistencies are addressed and the themes are reviewed to ensure they accurately represent the data.
Defining and Naming Themes
Clear definitions and names are assigned to each theme, making sure they encapsulate the essence of what the themes represent in the context of institutional resilience, governance and public policy in rural South Africa and Uganda.
Writing the Report
Finally, the themes are woven into a coherent narrative. This step involves linking the themes to the research objectives and interpreting their significance within the broader study context.
Data Analytical Tools used
The qualitative data for this study was analysed using NVivo version 20. The software was employed to facilitate thematic analysis, ensuring the systematic identification and organization of themes in the study.
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