I would like to take this opportunity to first and foremost thank God for being my strength
and guide in the writing of this dissertation. Without Him, I would not have had the wisdom
or the physical ability to do so.
I express my gratitude to my supervisor Sufia Singlee for her continuous support, excellent
guidance, patience, motivation, immense knowledge and providing me with an excellent
atmosphere for doing my research. I could not have imagined having a better supervisor and
mentor.
I am truly indebted to Baba and Mai Ashleigh for their support, encouragement and prayers
throughout my studies.
Furthermore, I would like to thank my family: my parents for giving birth to me in the first
place and supporting me spiritually throughout my life.
Thanks Nataizya Sikasote and Munyaradzi Mupazviripo for that last minute editing ‘A timely
rescue from the siege that I was in’.
In conclusion, I recognize that this research would not have been possible without the
financial assistance from the MasterCard Foundation.