To see the other types of publications on this topic, follow the link: Agricultural development project – South Africa.
Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Agricultural development project – South Africa'
Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles
Consult the top 50 dissertations / theses for your research on the topic 'Agricultural development project – South Africa.'
Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.
You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.
Browse dissertations / theses on a wide variety of disciplines and organise your bibliography correctly.
1
Mafanya, Kungeka Vuyisa. "The contribution of agricultural projects to poverty alleviation: Ncera Macadamia project." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8890.
Full textAbstract:
The aim of this project was to determine the extent to which an agricultural project contributes to the alleviation of poverty in a community. This was done through a case study of one agricultural project based in Kidds Beach, in the Eastern Cape. The research was conducted utilizing the qualitative research method. The findings depicted that the standard of living for the community had altered due the employment opportunities afforded by the project. The findings also illustrated the project is the only one of its nature in the Eastern Cape and that similar projects are in the process of being established in communities in the Transkei. The cultivation of macadamia nuts is costly and the target market is concentrated largely in Europe. The success of the first crop and the dividends procured, the project has proven itself to be a sound method of community and rural development which can encourage investment from other parties.
2
Kwesaba, Xolelwa. "Exploring the impact of agricultural project and income generation in Uitenhage." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021076.
Full textAbstract:
An income generating project signifies an unemployment strategy and an attempt at upliftment of living standards This study tries to explore the impact of agricultural and income generating projects on poverty alleviation in the Uitenhage area .The research topic tries to establish whether these poverty alleviation projectshave impacted sufficiently and contributed to socio-economic development and eradication of poverty . A sample of 15 respondents involved in an income generating project funded by the Department of Social Development was drawn from 1 Tinarha Agricultural Tourism Initiative. A purposive samplingmethod was used for thisstudy. Data was gathered through semi-structured questionnaires. Related literature that focuses on income generating projects for poverty alleviation has been reviewed. Various recommendations based on the findings of the study have also been made. The findings of the study indicate that the income generation project, has not impacted and contributed significantly to the process of eradicating poverty for the project members. It also indicates that project members were not empowered sufficiently with financial management skills needed to equip them to make substantial profits from their small business enterprises. It also emerged that the members were not able to secure markets for their products. This remains a key challenge for attainingsustainability. The research findings indicated clearly that the strategies that were used by the Departments were not effective enough to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation.
3
Japhta, R. "Thandi agricultural linkages project : lessons from a case study in land reform." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/20840.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2007.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Drawing on an exploratory case study in agricultural linkages, this report seeks to provide
lessons on how the rural poor might engage in more sustainable land refonn in South
Africa. The Thandi Agricultural Linkages Project case study is a land reform initiative of
the Capespan Group, South Africa's largest fruit exporting company. The study explores
how small farmers involved in worker equity-share schemes can benefit from the
opportunities from demand-driven changes in high value agriculture in South Africa. The
study examines the institutional mechanisms adopted by Capespan to integrate emerging
fruit farmers in the supply chain and its effects on farm profitability and sustainability.
Six farms were chosen as the object of research for the study.
The research argues that, whilst Govenunent have promulgated legislation and made
resources avai lable to facilitate land reform in agriculture, its impact and sustainability is
questionable. Whilst land reform to date is viewed by many critics in South Africa as a
failure, this report argues that there are important, but largely unexplored. cases of
success. These will require policy interventions, as well as much greater private sector
involvement to overcome the capacity gaps which exists among farmers that have been
empowered through land reform. Some of these opportunities call for innovative private
sector agribusiness champions that can partner with Government to link emerging
farmers in new ways into global and profitable local, value chains. Land reform is
unlikely to be economically and institutionally sustainable unless action is taken to
improve access to factors of production, strengthen the enabling environment and provide
skills development and technical assistance to emerging farmers in a highly competitive
global marketplace.
This research report compiles a list of 'good practices' that could be replicated. and
documents the lessons learned from the Thandi Agricultural Linkages Project. It is hoped
that these lessons will be used to inform the policy, design and implementation of future
land reform projects in South Africa .<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Deur die aanwending van 'n ondersoekende gevallestudie oor bindinge in die landbou.
wil hierdie verslag graag aandui hoe behoeftiges in die platteland moontlik deel mag he
aan meeT volhoubare grondhervorming in Suid-Afrika. Die Thandi Agricultural
Linkages-gevallestudie is 'n grondhervormingsinisiatief van die Capespan Groep, SuidAfrika
se grootste vrugte-uitvoermaatskappy. Die studie ondersoek hoe kleinboere wat in
werkememers gelyke-aandeleskemas betrokke is, voordeel kan trek uit die geleenthede
van vraaggedrewe veranderinge in hoewaarde landbou in Suid-Afrika. Die studie
ondersoek die institusionele meganismes wat deur Capespan toegepas is om opkomende
vrugteboere in die verskaffingsketting te integreer en die gevolglike uitwerking op plaaswinsgewendheid
en volhoubaarheid. Ses plase is as die onderwerp vir navorsing in
hierdie studie gekies.
Die navorsing voer aan dat hoewel die Regering wetgewing geproklameer en hulpbronne
beskikbaar gestel het om grondhervonning in landbou te fasiliteer, die impak. en
volhoubaarheid daarvan bevraagteken word. Terwyl baie kritici in Suid-Afrika
grondhervonning tot op hede as 'n mislukking afmaak, word daar in hierdie vers lag
geredeneer dat daar belangrike, maar grotendeels onverkende, gevalle van sukses is. Dit
sal beleidsingrype, sowel as baie groter privaatsektor betrokkenheid benodig am die
kapasiteitsgapings te oorbrug wat bestaan tussen boere wat deur grondhervorming
bemagtig is. Sommige van hierdie geleenthede vereis innoverende, privaatsektor
agrisake-kampioene wat as vennote saam met die Regering kan optree om opkomende
boere op nuwe wyses in verbinding te bring met wereld- en winsgewende plaaslike.
waardekettings. Die moontlikheid is skraal dat grondhervorming ekonomies en
institusioneel volhoubaar sal wees. tensy daar optrede is om toe gang tot faktore van
produksie te verbeter. die bemagtigingsomgewing te versterk en
vaardigheidsontwikkeling en tegniese hulp aan opkomende boere 10 'n
hoogskompeterende wereldmark te voorsien.
Hierdie navorsingsverslag verskaf 'n Iys van 'goeie bedrywe' wat ged upliseer kan word,
en dokumenteer die lesse wat uit die Thandi Agricultural Linkages-projek voortgevloei
het. Daar word geboop dat hierdie lesse aangewend sal word om die beleid, antwerp en
implementering van toekomstige grondhervormingsprojekte in Suid-Afrika te informeer
4
Troosters, Wim. "Demand driven rural agricultural development in South Africa: the case of the agricultural sustainable community investment programme." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021149.
Full textAbstract:
Food security is high on the development agenda in South Africa. A wide range of agricultural interventions exist across the country initiated by various stakeholders at different levels of society. While many interventions focus on production related constraints of food security, there are far fewer that focus on the integration of smallholder farmers in the supply chain. The research subject is the Agricultural Sustainable Community Investment Project (Agri-SCIP), operating on the south coast of the Kwa-Zulu Natal Province. As a demand driven alternative market model, the focus of the project is on the integration of local smallholder farmers in the fresh produce supply chain. The main research question is whether the participation of smallholder farmers in the fresh produce supply actually has actually improved for participants of the test case. Existing barriers to entry for smallholder farmers are mitigated in the project. Through a literature review five critical factors for market participation by smallholder farmers are identified, namely transport and distance to markets, product quality, product quantity, the buyer-seller relationship and market information. A literature review and empirical data are applied to test the impact of the Agri-SCIP project on the participation of smallholder farmers in the fresh produce supply chain based on these five critical factors. The data indicate that many of the existing barriers to entry in the fresh produce supply chain for the smallholder farmers are mitigated, and have been shifted to a collectively owned co-operative. Therefore, as an alternative market model, Agri-SCIP has the potential to provide a sustainable solution for smallholder development in South Africa with a strong focus on supply chain participation. The development of a strong smallholder farmers base and the development of smallholder farmers into semi-commercial farmers are potential long term results of the Agri-SCIP alternative market model.
5
Magida, Phiwokuhle Thulani. "A socio-economic impact assessment (SEIA) of the Idutywa agripark project on project beneficiaries in Mbashe local municipality of the Eastern Cape Province." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016195.
Full textAbstract:
Poverty, inequality and unemployment have always been challenging first in South Africa with special reference to rural South Africa. These persistent challenges with severe impacts on black population are believed to be the results of the previous governance in South Africa. Policies have been formulated, reformulated and others implemented in a form of development projects which have achieved little success in pursuit of combating these challenges. However, in the process of achieving rural development through developmental projects, a fundamental stage in the life cycle of these projects is often omitted or given little attention. This stage is the monitoring and evaluation stage which is critical to ascertain potential impacts (both positive and negative) especially if the project is to be replicated and achieve its objectives as postulated in the millennium development goals. This thesis attempted to carry out a Socio-Economic Impact Assessment (SEIA) of the Agripark project implemented at Dutywa on the livelihoods of communities directly affected by this project. The Agripark project is a project that comprises three linked components, a seedling nursery, an agro-processing facility and a sizeable feeder plot and has been implemented to benefit four villages. This project has been implemented as the second Agripark project by the University of Fort Hare in partnership with the province’s Department of Agriculture. To track change after the implementation of the project, data were collected from the same respondents that were interviewed for the baseline study, therefore, the same sample size that was used in the baseline study was also used for this study. As a tool for data collection, a questionnaire was developed to elicit the required information and was interviewer administered during data collection. The results of the study revealed that Agripark project has impact on both social and economic wellbeing of the households. The processing unit of the project was not yet functioning therefore the project was not fully effective thus the impact was not as intended by the project when the study was carried out. Skills transferred were only on production but only a small number of people could receive them. These households largely relied on external sources of income mainly on social grants and their contribution to total household income had increased to 88% in 2011 compared to 80% in 2008. As much as the increase in incomes cannot be entirely be because of the project but Agripark had a positive impact on household incomes through wages of those employed there and through increased profitability of hawking vegetables. The proportion of household earning incomes less than the Poverty line fell from 85% in 2008 to approximately 79% in 2011. The household complemented their staples with a variety of vegetables and the main source of these vegetables was Agripark even though own production was declining. Even though food was still the main item of these households expenditure, the proportion of income spent on food fell from 64% in 2008 to 48% in 2011. There were no environmental impacts found. From the descriptive analysis, the project had impact on the livelihoods of these households because it brought change on the household expenditure as a result of the income earned by those who are working in the Agripark. There was an improvement on risk of food insecurity through cheaper vegetable that both physically and financially attainable. However, as much as the project had positive impact, there were also concerns raised by the respondents that the employment was only biased to certain individuals which cased stress to some households. Furthermore, the empirical analysis of the selected variables showed that participation in Agripark had an impact on economic wellbeing of the beneficiaries. Thus, funding must be made available to the project so that it can upgrade their electricity and have the processing plant running as it may be the major source of employment, skills development and achievement of its objectives.
6
Bolana, Khayalethu Kenneth. "The role of the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute in rural agricultural development in the Eastern Cape." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8198.
Full textAbstract:
The decline of sustainable farming in the past twenty years in the villages of Amahlathi Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province is a cause for concern as this has resulted in reduced food security and increased levels of poverty and unemployment in the villages. As this decline continues to escalate even to date, this study was intended to investigate the role that could be played by the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute in the reduction of poverty through sustainable agricultural activities in these villages. Using a case study of Kubusi village in Amahlathi Local Municiplality, data was gathered through interviewing farming and non-farming households as well as the extension officer for Kubusi village and Dohne officials in order to understand the reasons for and the nature of the decline in farming activities in the villages. The study was conducted against the background of sustainable liveIihood (SL) theory. Important findings revealed that economic factors, primarily lack of money to buy fence and hire tractors to plough are primary causes for the decline, this followed by the effects of global warming and the lack of interest by the young generation to participate in crop farming. The study recommends that the government of the Eastern Cape should intervene through the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute in reskilling rural people in modern farming methods and assisting rural farmers with inputs, primarily fence, tractors and irrigation systems.
7
Ndlovu, Sikhanyiso. "Community development projects and food security: the case of Zanyokwe Irrigation Project Eastern Cape Province, South Africa." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007226.
Full textAbstract:
Although food insecurity is said to have decreased in South Africa in the past years particularly at the national level, however, at household level a substantial proportion of households remains at risk of food insecurity and are experiencing hunger particularly in the Eastern Cape Province were poverty is rife. Food insecurity in the Eastern Cape Province is attributed to the fact that agriculture, the mainstay of the rural economy is no longer given the value that it should carry, does not help the situation. Despite much research on food (in) security in South Africa, the link between poverty and household food security is not at all clear. This study seeks to fill this gap specifically by looking at the linkages in the main between food security and poverty especially in the community level. Amidst the various programmes and initiatives that are in place in South Africa, there is continual prevalence of food insecurity facing the majority of South African households. The major aim of this study was therefore to examine the impact of one of these programmes, the Zanyokwe irrigation scheme in enhancing food security not only for the farmers but also for the surrounding communities. This study adopted a qualitative approach to research. The study unearthed that even though Zanyokwe irrigation scheme has played an indispensable role in enhancing food security for the smallholder farmers and the community at large challenges such as market challenges, road infrastructural issues, land tenure issues, lack of proper coordination amongst the farmers as well as farmer empowerment are a major limitation to the growth of the irrigation scheme and the farmers. Thus, the study recommended that farmer support services, training, agriculture subsidies, improved infrastructure as well as addressing market related challenges will go a long way in reducing the plight of the Zanyokwe farmers as well as enhancing food security
8
Nemanashi, Fhatuwani Rolet. "An evaluation of local economic development projects in the Mutale Municipality in the Limpopo Province with reference to the case of MTT and RCP stone crushing projects." Thesis, University of Limpopo (Turfloop Campus), 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10386/844.
Full text
9
Zwane, Elliot Mahlengule. "Participatory development of an extension approach and policy for Limpopo Province, South Africa." Thesis, Pretori : [s.n.], 2009. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-10172009-093242/.
Full text
10
Matlou, Ntebatse Yvonne. "Challenges faced by emerging farmers in the managing projects towards sustainable agricultural development in Capricorn District, Limpopo Province, RSA." Thesis, University of Limpopo, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/10386/2392.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (M. Dev.) -- University of Limpopo, 2018<br>The research investigated the challenges faced by emerging farmers in managing projects towards sustainable agricultural development in Capricorn District. The literature established the importance of project management in the context of sustainable agricultural development. In this regard, it was found that it is of extreme importance to support emerging farmers in managing agricultural projects where emerging farmers are engaged through a participatory approach in decision making processes for sustainable agricultural development.
Further, this research seeks to investigate the factors that hinder project management from influencing emerging farmers to manage and sustain the agricultural projects in the area of the study. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were distributed to the selected sample within the target population. The purposive sampling method was used to select the 16 project officers for interviews while questionnaires were distributed randomly for 30 emerging farmers in the Molemole and Polokwane Municipalities.
The findings of the study suggest that most emerging farmers and project officers think that the lack of resources and training hamper the management and sustainability of agricultural projects.
To conclude, it is expected that the recommendations will highlight strategies and policies that could be put in place to accelerate the management of agricultural projects and their sustainability in the Capricorn District.
11
Mabaso, Siphesihle Merit. "Impact of Agricultural development projects on poverty alleviation In Amajuba district municipality (KZN)." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019770.
Full textAbstract:
The study determined the impact of agricultural development projects on poverty alleviation at Amajuba district municipality. Data was drawn from 100 respondents, projects were purposively selected in line with the focus of projects members and non-projects members in Dannhauser under Amajuba District municipality to access and investigate the impact of agricultural development projects on poverty alleviation. The study presents the results of assessing those that are in groups and those that are working individually on agricultural production to alleviate poverty. The data was captured using a questionnaire which was administered through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression model were used to analyse and compare the level of livelihood and variables between project and non-project members. The results show that project members are more productive than non-project members. Project members had more access to funding, training, markets and extension services compared to non-members. However, the results further showed that being a project member attracts some rewards which end up improving the living standards as well as alleviates the poverty levels of farmers, whereas working as an individual limits the farmer(s) from receiving reasonable government assistance such as funding and extension services delivery. The descriptive results indicated that members of most rural households were relatively old, married, literate but unemployed. Non-project members were dependent on remittances, social grants and pension funds because the farming strategy could not meet all their household needs. However, The major crops that were grown for income and food security to maintain their livelihoods include: maize, potatoes, onions, butternut, carrots, cabbage and dry beans. Factors that had significant influences on outcomes were extension services, grants, pension and remittances, land productivity, market accessibility, output difference and livelihood. The available opportunities for project members were access to land, funding, markets, infrastructure, inputs and support services from government institutions, as well as NGO’s.
12
Dyalo, Nolutho. "Economic development in the Eastern Cape: a case study of agricultural projects." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15589.
Full textAbstract:
This study seeks to evaluate economic development in the Eastern Cape Province, with a special focus on the agricultural sector. It focuses on the role that Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) play in stimulating economic development. To achieve this, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) was considered as a case study in assessing DFI’s support to the agricultural sector in the province. The study will also look into the corporation’s adherence to the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP) and its strategic programmes. The study examines how the agricultural initiatives financed by ECDC contribute to economic development in the province. It will also assess whether those agricultural projects may impact the local communities through poverty alleviation. In order to address the research problem and to achieve the research objectives, available literature and empirical work related to the relationship between financial system development and economic development was reviewed. The research revealed that the role played by the ECDC with regard to Agricultural Projects has not been entirely effective to add value to economic development in the province, mainly caused by the lack of non – financial support by skilled people from the corporation, after limited funding was made available. From the investigation, the findings indicate that the effective mplementation of these projects require strengthened capacity, which requires more skilled officials from the corporation to assist the agricultural enterprises in managing the projects; and more funding that will assist the projects to reach sustainability.
13
Van, der Merwe Daisy Margaret. "A pilot project for the development of guidelines towards the establishment of a telecentre in a rural agricultural community in South Africa." Diss., Pretoria : [s.n.], 2001. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-02282006-090143/.
Full text
14
Guzana, Andile. "An assessment of the role of agricultural projetcs in poverty alleviation at Ngqushwa Local Municipality." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020351.
Full textAbstract:
This study assessed the role of agricultural projects in poverty alleviation at Ngqushwa local municipality. These projects are very important for poverty alleviation and to fight the growing levels of unemployment in the Eastern Cape. Despite the advantages of these projects, there are challenges that impact negatively on the implementation of these projects such as conflict, lack of resources, market failure and these projects are too disconnected. Consequently, the projects do not achieve their intended objectives and there are high levels of dissatisfaction among project members. The study was conducted in two wards of Ngqushwa local municipality, and two projects were selected from each ward and ten members were selected from each project and the total number of a sample for the study was forty project members. The research utilized both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected through questionnaires, document analysis and observations. The sampling method that was used to select respondents or participants was purposive. The findings of the study indicated that agricultural projects in this area did not bring about any significant reduction in poverty, and they did not bring about any significant economic development. The study also revealed that there was lack of community participation in matters pertaining to community development and lack of support by all relevant stakeholders which resulted in failure at the implementation phase. The researcher also discovered that the poverty alleviation approach was mainly focused on one type of project, other than looking at other avenues to ensure that those who do not have interest in food gardens are given alternative opportunities like cattle farming. In view of these findings, the study recognises a need for empowerment in terms of knowledge and skills, understanding and resource management of agricultural projects. The study thus recommended that community members should be actively involved in community development projects. Additionally, the study recommended for the establishment or formulation of new policies or amendments of the existing policies in order to boost agriculture in rural areas so as to be able to alleviate poverty effectively.
15
Mashila, Daphney Musumbuluku. "The impact of Mabunda Citrus Project on poverty alleviation in the community of Xitlakati in the Greater Giyani municipality of Mopani District in Limpopo Province." Thesis, University of Limpopo (Turfloop Campus), 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10386/799.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (M.Dev.) --University of Limpopo, 2011<br>The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of a community-based agricultural project, the Mabunda Citrus Project in the Greater Giyani Municipality of Mopani District, Limpopo Province, on poverty alleviation and community development within the framework of rural development in the Agricultural Sector. Although there is a general view that community-based agricultural projects have an impact on community development in the literature, very little is known about the impact of community initiatives in Limpopo Province. This study project therefore sought to fill in this knowledge gap and highlight prospects and challenges of these endeavours.
Using a qualitative case study design, a series of interviews schedules and focus group sessions were conducted among 21 (n=21) direct beneficiaries who each had about 10 hectares orchard, seven (n=7) civic community structure and seven (n=7) youth structure committee members and one (n=1) Deputy Chief in the Xitlakati Community in the Greater Giyani Municipality. Data collected over a period of a week were captured via field notes and analyzed using thematic and content analyses.
The results of the study show three interrelated results. First, the beneficiaries included in the study met the requirements of people below the poverty line, save for one volunteer teacher. Secondly, the findings show that although the project does not meet all the needs of the beneficiaries, it does show many positive impacts on poverty alleviation. This is illustrated by increased employment of the beneficiaries and seasonal workers, donation of uniforms to poor children in both primary and secondary schools in the community, provision of oranges for consumption to workers, deputy chief and schools as well as the acquisition of a community hall in the Xitlakati community.
Given these positive findings above, the researcher concluded that community-based agricultural projects in Limpopo are a necessary condition for poverty alleviation in rural areas. However, the researcher has observed that structural and practical challenges, as outlined in the study, may derail the project from reaching its full potential. It is therefore recommended that a full time specialized technician be provided, the beneficiary selection criteria to include more females and disabled persons be revised; budget and salaries be discussed in a transparent way, among other potential threats. Since this is a qualitative research, the conclusions derived are limited due to the sample size. Further quantitative research is necessary to provide quantitative measures of the impact of the project on poverty alleviation.
16
Verschoor, Aart-Jan. "Agricultural development in the North-West Province of South Africa through application of comprehensive planning and appraisal methodologies." Thesis, Pretoria : [s.n. ], 2003. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-05272005-144651/.
Full text
17
Prinsloo, Alwyn. "A critical analysis of the LRAD sub-programme in the Gauteng Province of South Africa." Pretoria : [S.n.], 2009. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-08112009-114937/.
Full text
18
Mlomzale, Mpilo. "The decline of agricultural production in rural areas of the Eastern Cape." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11212.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis uses the substainable rural livelihoods framework to investigate the agricultural livelihoods of the Cata community of the Eastern Cape. The Cata community is a deeply rural community located on the southern slopes of the Amatole Mountains. Traditional crop production used to be the major source of income for the households in this community. Of late there has been a lesser reliance on production of food by many households. Many are no longer ploughing their fields or their homestead gardens. People from this community are now spending most of their income on purchasing basic food items that they use to produce themselves, such as vegetables. The researcher then decided to study the contemporary livelihood of this rural community so as to identify the reasons why people in Cata are no longer ploughing their fields and gardens. This study found that, rural people in the community are faced with severe obstacles to agricultural production and this has led them to abandon agriculture as a major means of household support. These obstacles include high cost of production inputs, lack of fencing and lack of mechanization tractors and implements. In order to revitalize crop production the people want to be assisted with production inputs, tractor subsides, consistent water supply and fencing of the fields. Finally, the study makes recommendations for the revitalization of crop production in the Cata.
19
Sishuba, Siphokazi. "Income generating projects in the agricultural sector in securing, maintaining and providing sustainable livelihoods : a case study of two projects in the Lukhanji Local Municipality." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020794.
Full textAbstract:
The province consists of seven district municipalities, which include Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Cacadu, Amathole, Chris Hani, Ukhahlamba, OR Tambo, and Alfred Ndzo. It is comprised of seven local municipalities: King Sabata Dalindyebo, Nyanden, Qaukeni, Mbizana, Mhlontlo, Port St John’s, and Ntabankulu. According to Bradshaw et al. (2000:4), the Eastern Cape has the second highest poverty level of all provinces in South Africa. Forty seven percent of households are below the poverty line, a figure based on imputed monthly expenditure of R800 or less (USSA, 2000b). In addition, the province has the highest provincial unemployment rate (55 percent) in the country (SSA, 2003). Inequitable growth and development characterise this province. Due to the high level of poverty, the government has formulated strategies, such as income generating projects (IGPs), to address the need for improved living conditions, better skills and more self-employment opportunities. The income generating project as a concept seems a convincing strategy at first glance. However, there is a need to evaluate the effectiveness of income generating projects in improving living conditions and providing sustainable livelihoods. In light of this, the researcher undertook a study to evaluate these projects in order to determine the extent to which IGPs as mechanisms provide sustainable livelihoods for resource–poor rural people in the Lukhanji Local Municipality. The researcher used a combined method approach; the study includes both quantitative and qualitative research designs in an attempt to gain an in-depth understanding of the problem. The investigator employed questionnaires and interviews to gather information. Participants were project members, project leaders and key informants, as these people were contributing builders and mangers of the project. Findings reveal a lack of sustainability in income generating projects, as numerous project members left the projects studied. A lack of income to sustain project members during their membership was a common complaint. Further, a lack of skills is a crucial contributing factor, as members of another project complained of a lack of training of project members.
20
Mkwela, Gcobani. "The role of agriculture in the Ncora area." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021107.
Full textAbstract:
Despite 19 years of democracy and public action by civil society, policy makers continue to neglect the role of agriculture in improving the quality of life in rural areas such as Ncora in the Eastern Cape. The communities in the Ncora area still experience poverty despite the fact people receive state grants. Agriculture is declining in this area without basic infrastructure. The study argues that communities in the Ncora area need assistance from government in order to increase agricultural activities. These activities are an important route through which these communities can reduce poverty. The primary objective of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the role of agriculture in reducing poverty in the Ncora rural areas. The conditions necessary to sustain agriculture in the rural areas were identified. This was mainly done to help alleviate the plight of rural areas in the Ncora area and to improve the quality of life of the rural population. The study was based on three research objectives. The first objective was to investigate the constraints to agricultural production in Ncora. The second objective was to ascertain what has been done by the Eastern Cape government in increasing agricultural activities. The third objective was to investigate the contribution of agriculture in reducing poverty in Ncora. The main finding in terms of the first research objective is that constraints to agricultural production in Ncora are structural constraints. These include inadequate infrastructure such as poor roads, lack of transport and equipment, lack of farming skills, poor quality seed, no access to markets, inadequate and unaffordable services. In terms of the second research objective, the main finding is that the government has encouraged investment in infrastructure using labour-intensive methods will eliminate service backlogs in underserviced areas such as Ncora. Secondly, it has encouraged the revival of irrigation schemes such as the Ncora irrigation scheme and is investing in human capital through the empowerment of people in order to improve the quality of life of the Ncora community. Empowerment involves skills and training, education and access to basic services, expertise regarding credit, land and the growing of vegetables. The development of human capital is an important determinant of the pace of economic development. Human, social, natural, financial and physical capital are essential elements of reducing poverty. In fact, the Ncora community has lobbied Intsika Yethu Municipality for community development Community development through education and community participation in development programmes. Efforts have to be made to increase the skills that will enable them to complete development projects. These include technical skills in areas such as vegetable and crop production during the year. A key component of the success of development projects is to involve communities in the planning and decision-making processes. Community development is linked to empowerment, in other words, empowered people are able to contribute to the development of their community because they have knowledge of the economic, social and political goals of development. Therefore, empowerment enables people to participate in and have an influence on the decisions that affect their lives. The main finding in terms of the third research objective is that people in the Ncora community are using their own labour to improve food production to reduce poverty. The Ncora community has been shown when and how to make, grow and plant seeds, and look after the vegetables of their choice. The community of Ncora has learnt about cropping practices that are appropriate to their situation. The intention is to sell vegetables and crops to local communities and markets in order to generate income. The community has to do it for themselves or else they will wait forever.
21
Mahlathini, Evans Phefo. "Post-settlement support for the beneficiaries of the land redistribution for the agricultural development programme." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3625.
Full textAbstract:
The Land Reform projects are primarily challenged by post-settlement support. They mainly rely on government grants to survive and in some instances, projects have failed due to lack of sufficient post-settlement support. There are many government and private institutions and mandated and private businesses that offer post-settlement support to LRAD beneficiaries. Their impact can only be measured against improvements in the livelihoods of beneficiaries. While land reform has been in existence in SA, the main source of support evidently seems to have been the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) in the form of a government grants. The existence of other sources of post-settlement support cannot be ignored, but the extents to which these support mechanisms are combined have contributed to the improvement of sustainable livelihood of the beneficiaries, as measured through livelihood assets. The main aim of this study is to explore how the LRAD beneficiaries in the Witzenberg Municipality in the Western Cape employ their livelihood strategies. It explores the types of support received by the beneficiaries and how the support has been used. To determine the progress made through the post-settlement support received by the beneficiaries in an attempt to achieve rural livelihoods strategies, the study discusses the status of the farms during the inception and also the current status. Many studies done by role players and academics in the field of land reform mainly explore the monetary benefit and ignore or pay less attention to the livelihood in five capitals. The needs confronting beneficiaries in the form of livelihood strategies are presented in the form of capital; for example, physical, natural, human, social, economic and financial capitals. This paper seeks to establish an understanding of how beneficiaries of land reform achieve their livelihood, given the constraints of post-settlement support to land reform in South Africa.
22
Mniki, Sicelo. "An assessment of the impact of Local Economic Development in Mbhashe Local Municipality with special focus on agricultural projects." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018579.
Full textAbstract:
The need to achieve developmental local government in South Africa has necessitated that the municipalities and other government departments pay more attention to the poor so that they can be helped to live more fruitful lives and become the instruments for the growth of local economy. This study seeks to assess the impact of Local Economic Development (LED) initiatives in Mbhashe Local Municipality with special focus on the Maize Production Project (MPP). The areas of Mbhashe municipality that were included in the study include Ndakeni village near Dutywa, Tswele-litye near Willowvale and Madwaleni near Elliotdale. The study followed both the qualitative and quantitative research approaches and the respondents were made up of a sample of MPP beneficiaries from the three areas mentioned above, Community Leaders and the Officials. The objectives of the study were to identify MPP objectives, to identify challenges in the implementation of the MPP, to assess the availability of remedial measures and lastly, to assess whether the community has benefited from the maize production project or not. Among others, the objectives of the MPP were to maximise maize production, to make profit, to create employment opportunities for the unemployed. Only 13 percent of the surveyed beneficiaries believe that their expectations of this initiative were fully met. The majority (two thirds) believe that their expectations were partly met, whilst one in five (20 percent) believe that their expectations were not met at all. The MPP implementation challenges included delays caused by the municipal procurement processes, unfavourable climate conditions, poor service delivery by the appointed service providers who provide tractors, shortage of funds and late start for ploughing. Even though the remedial measures seem to be in place, the implementation and the communication of the strategies remains a big challenge. Furthermore a proportion of the respondents were unhappy with the public participation process that preceded the implementation of the project.According to the findings, two thirds (67 percent) of the surveyed farmers believe that their communities have benefited from the MPP, although one third (33 percent) disagreed. The challenges of an insufficient budget, procurement delays and late commencement of ploughing need to be addressed if the maize production initiative is to yield the desired results.
23
Majali, Vuyiseka. "The socio-cultural factors affecting the participation of women in agricultural development: Khezana village in Alice district." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/557.
Full textAbstract:
The study sought to investigate socio-cultural factors that contribute to the invisibility of women in agricultural activities at Khwezana village, Alice district. The present study was underpinned by a people’s –centered developmental approach paired with the feminist perspective based of ethnographic research methods, participant observation and basic individual interviews. The study mainly focused on female residents of the village, those who are active in agriculture and also those who are not practicing crop production. Rural women of South Africa have historically played a significant role by contributing in the sustainable livelihoods of the country as well as their communities. However, it has been revealed that there are factors that impede the participation of women in agricultural development. The study revealed that socio-cultural factors such as limited access to land, access to credit (due to tradition and culture circumstances), limited education and culture change in general are the major factors that significantly influence the low agricultural activity in the study village.
24
Alao, Abiodun Oyebimpe. "The impact of ICTs for agricultural development in the rural community: a case study of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/236.
Full textAbstract:
This study investigates the impact of ICTs for agricultural development in the Alice rural community. The rationale for carrying out the study has to do with the limited access to ICTs by farmers residing in this rural community which in turn affects their productivity and increase in the volume of agricultural production. The core argument of the study is that the use of ICTs has positive spinoffs on agricultural development which leads to improvement in the quality and quantity of agricultural production. Conversely lack of access to ICTs can result in inability to enhance agricultural productivity in rural areas such as Alice. Furthermore, it is argued herein that technological information devices such as ICTs are essential communication and information tools; and as such, should be regarded as useful communication media for disseminating relevant agricultural information to farmers residing in rural communities. In conducting this study theoretical frameworks such as Rogers’ diffusion of innovation and development theories encompassing both the participatory approach and development support communication were presented and argued for as approaches suitable for the study. Triangulations of research methods, such as, qualitative and quantitative methods, were utilized for the collection of data for this study. As is common practice, the triangulation method was used in cross checking and supplementing data/information collected through the utilization of each of the methods. Interviews and questionnaires were used as data collection tools for this study owing to their ability to generate clear and precise responses or answers to the questions posed. The key findings of the study show that the limited access to ICTs in the Alice rural community was caused by factors such as low level of literacy, age and language barriers which in turn affected the adoption of ICTs amongst the Alice farmers. Amongst the recommendations emanating from this study is the idea that the adoption of ICTs for agricultural information can be fast-tracked through the implementation of telecentres/kiosk and information centers for easy access to information and communication services in the rural community.
25
Solani, Noncedo Reinnet. "The role of rural agriculture in improving household food security : the case of Nkwalini-Bafazi in Elliotdale." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021179.
Full textAbstract:
The problem that is researched relates to the tendency of rural people to abandon agriculture in favour of wage employment and non-agricultural informal activities, and the existence of large areas of underutilized arable land in rural communities. This study explored the specific role of agriculture in the rural communities. The need to improve the quality of life of rural households through the promotion of agriculture and industry gave rise to the implementation of the Siyazondla Homestead Food Production Programme. In this strategy it is envisaged that vibrant, equitable and sustainable rural communities and food security for all will be achieved. The main research question underpinning this study relates to the role of rural agriculture in Nkwalini-Bafazi in meeting the set objectives of the project; such as improving household food security; equipping farmers with necessary skills in order to promote agricultural productivity. The research question can further be captured in these two queries: i) other than the reasons already known for the decline of agriculture in rural areas of South Africa (e.g poor extension services, poor soils, lack of market and so forth); what other fundamental reasons may be there for the poor performance of agricultural production in the communal areas? ii) What role, positive or negative has the government and its agencies played in respect to agricultural development in communal areas. The study, through qualitative methodology, sampled households in Nkwalini-Bafazi who are part of the Siyazondla Food Production Programme. The study investigated the role of agriculture in improving the livelihoods of rural people; and what strategies are required to promote agriculture so as to make contributions for future policy directions. Although this programme has been successfully initiated, from the findings of the study it is evident that beneficiaries are facing many challenges. It is crucial for the South African government to implement mechanisms to ensure that farmers will obtain incentives for farming activities, promotion of food security and rural local economic development, in order to redress the imbalances of the former apartheid regime.
26
Makeleni, Maliviwe. "An investigation of skills and knowledge of women participating in water and food security projects in the Eastern Cape Province: a case of Mbekweni village, Sirhosheni and Lutengele villages." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021306.
Full textAbstract:
The South African government initiated programmes to ensure that women in agriculture are empowered with sufficient agricultural skills and knowledge to engage in agriculture in order to alleviate poverty for their families and communities. Studies argue that within the agricultural sector, women are not capacitated adequately enough in terms of the skills and knowledge they need to acquire, and particularly as this relates to their ability to have knowledge about more advanced technologies in farming. This includes the most up to date knowledge related to sustainable-development. This study has attempted to investigate skills and knowledge possessed by women participating in water and food security projects in the Eastern Cape. Selected study areas were Mbekweni village located in Whittlesea, Sirhosheni village which is situated in Willowvale and Lutengele village in Port St Johns. The thesis was also aiming to find the skills/knowledge gap amongst the sample so as to come up with recommendations. The data was collected using two semi-structured questionnaires. The first questionnaire was for the main survey which mainly concentrated on the socio-economic information of the respondents. This data were collected from 163 households across three sites using systematic sampling. The second questionnaire was mainly used to gain more in-depth analysis. The data were collected from 30 households across three sites using purposive sampling. Both questionnaires were administered through face-to-face interviews. The majority of respondents have stated that they have basic knowledge and skills in farming, however they need further training on appropriate planting methods for various crops, irrigation scheduling and frequency, application of pesticides and marketing skills. Econometric analysis, through the use of the binomial regression model revealed that education affects the level of knowledge of farmers in selecting appropriate planting methods as well as farmers’ knowledge in determining seed depth of a crop. Gender influences the level of knowledge farmers have when selecting appropriate planting methods. Having extension assistance was recognised to affect farmers’ knowledge in determining irrigation scheduling and intensity. All variables were statistically significant showing a 5% level. The thesis ultimately argues that encouraging support to agricultural extension that respects local-level indigenous farming will increase the food-security potential of residents within the Eastern Cape.
27
Makunga, Phendulwa Zikhona. "Small-scale farmers' participation in planning and implementation of farmer support programmes in Amahlathi Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6248.
Full textAbstract:
The democratic government in South Africa has brought about several policies which were initiated for rural development, and one of the government’s strategies was to involve the agricultural sector. Farmer Support Programmes (FSPs) were developed to assist small-scale farmers to become commercial farmers. The study looked at the participation of small scale farmers in the planning and implementation of the FSPs in the Amahlathi Local Municipality. 108 small scale farmers were selected using a non-random purposive probability and twelve farmers’ organisations. Semi-structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used as the data collection tool and method respectively. The data analysis used was a descriptive analysis and a thematic analysis. The results revealed that the farmers have a positive perception towards the support programmes being helpful in their farming needs. The positive perception was especially on the extension and advisory services, dipping and vaccination programme, and the supply and funding of inputs and assets. However, the results revealed that there was no significant difference between gender and the perception of the farmers when a chi square test of association was performed. The results also revealed that the farmers and farmers’ organisations were not involved in the planning of the programmes by the government. It is therefore recommended that for the success of the FSP and for economic growth in the rural areas, the government has to avoid using a top-down approach when developing these programmes, and instead consult the farmers and the farmers’ organisations to know the specific needs of the farmers in their farming practices.
28
Masela, Zandile. "Socio-economic benefits of agricultural projects to surrounding communities: the case of Qamata Irrigation Scheme in the Eastern Cape, South Africa." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4716.
Full textAbstract:
The Qamata Irrigation Scheme (QIS) is one of the largest irrigation schemes in South Africa. Despite substantial state investment, community members have only derived limited benefits from the scheme, leading the government efforts to revitalize the scheme. Many studies have been conducted about QIS but none of them have analyzed the effects of the QIS on the surrounding communities. This study investigated the socio-economic benefits of QIS to surrounding communities. For the purposes of this study, the units of analysis were the surrounding household members, questionnaires were used to collect data. Probabilistic sampling of random sampling method was used to select the villages; respondents’ were availability selected with sample size of 197 households. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from the participants. To analyse data, descriptive statistics and multinomial logit regression model were used. The study found out that female-headed households constitute 63.45 percent compared to male-headed households at 36.55 percent. The average age of the households in the villages that are within the radius of 10km is 58 years, while it is 59 years in villages that are beyond the 10km radius. In villages within the radius of 10km, 86.08 percent of respondents are unemployed, 5.70 percent are employed at the scheme and 8.23 percent are self-employed. In villages beyond 10km, 84.62 percent of respondents are unemployed, 5.13 percent are employed at the scheme and 10.26 percent are self-employed. In both villages, 71 percent of respondents reported that that they do not get feed supply from the scheme while 29 percent of respondents reported that they get feed supply from the scheme. From the overall distribution of villages within and beyond the radius of 10km, 80 percent of respondents reported that they do not get job opportunities from the QIS while 20 percent of respondents reported that they get job opportunities from the QIS. The study shows that 53 percent of respondents from villages within the radius of 10km are low-benefitting, 33 percent of respondents are intermediate-benefitting and 14 percent of respondents are high-benefitting from the scheme, while in villages beyond the radius of 10km, 97 percent of respondents are low-benefitting, 3 percent of respondents are intermediate-benefitting and none of the respondents is high-benefitting from the scheme. Furthermore, the study, through the multinomial logit regression model, shows that gender for intermediate benefitting has a negative coefficient (-1.70) and shows a significance of 10 percent On the other hand, gender for high benefitting has a positive coefficient (2.57) and shows a significance of 1 percent. Distance from the scheme has a negative coefficient (-3.08) and shows a significance of 1 percent. Access to farmland has a positive coefficient (2.33) and shows a significance of 10 percent. The study recommends that surrounding communities should own home gardens so that they can grow fresh produce and create job opportunities. The surrounding communities are also encouraged to own more farmlands or produce their own crops so they can also learn from the skills of the scheme.
29
Zenda, Sipho Macriba. "A systems approach to marketing in less developed agriculture with reference to Bululwane Irrigation Scheme." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001045.
Full text
30
Teki, Unathi. "An evaluation of the effectiveness, of agricultural projects to alleviate poverty in Motherwell in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018688.
Full textAbstract:
Poverty is one of the major problems that Republic of South Africa is dealing with at the particular moment and the lack of unemployment makes it even worse. According to the South African Government, they are trying their best level to decrease the level of poverty. Yet according to the standard of living of the poor people nothing has been seen that make a difference on the way these community members are affected by the poverty. This chapter will outline the structure of this study pertaining on how the information will be gathered, what is going to be collected, who will be involved, where would this study be focused, which area and which department will take part in order to address the answers to the above topic. It will also give the background of why these projects were created.
31
Magadani, Thivhavhudzi Benert. "Assessment of the capacity building in Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) funded projects in Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa." Thesis, University of Limpopo, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10386/1401.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (M.Dev.) --University of Limpopo, 2014<br>Capacity building is a process of building capabilities in individuals, groups, institutions, organisations, and societies at the local, national and international levels, to be more effectively prepared for and respond to public health threats of a crisis in a sustainable manner. This process is designed to reinforce or create strengths upon which communities can mitigate vulnerabilities as a result of emergencies and disasters.
The main aim of the study was to assess capacity building in Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) funded projects in Capricorn District of Limpopo Province. The CASP programme was initiated to provide post-settlement support for farmers who have benefitted from the Land Reform programmes. Since zfthe inception of this programme, there has not been any assessment of capacity building as one of the pillars of CASP. The objective of the study was to assess capacity building on productivity and to determine the impact of capacity building on the CASP funded projects. The study hypothesed that an increase in the level of productivity of CASP funded projects depends on the level of capacity building.
The term training refers to the acquisition of knowledge, skills and competencies as a result of the teaching of vocational or practical skills. In land reform projects, training is provided as the planned and organised activity of a consultant to impart skills, techniques and methodologies to employers and their employees, to assist them in establishing and maintaining employment and a place of employment that is safe and healthy.
The Farmer training is offered in two different methods, viz., on-farm and off-farm training. The on-farm training involves a service-provider visiting the farmer and rendering the training at the farm, whereas the off-farm training requires a farmer to go to the planned venue or institution of training to receive the planned training.
iv
32
Sunduza, Nosipho Gloria. "Poverty alleviation through the development of subsistence harvesters at Ngqushwa Municipality." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9228.
Full textAbstract:
The broad objective of the study was poverty alleviation through the development of subsistence harvesters at Ngqushwa Municipality. The research objectives were to explore - ways of advancing from being subsistence level producers, opportunities available to these harvesters, if they, (subsistence harvesters), want to be commercialized and what actions do they need to take to become successful businesses. The study was conducted in the the coastal area of Ngqushwa Municipality. The researcher conducted face-to-face interviews with 2 key informants. The respondents provided information on the marine species harvested by the subsistence harvesters of the Ngqushwa Municipality and the type of tools they use for harvesting. They mentioned how subsistence harvesters could advance from subsistence level to producers, about opportunities available to these harvesters, and what actions they need to take if they want to become successful businesses. The key informants also informed the researcher that subsistence harvesters are now classified as Small Scale Fisheries and informed about villages that engage in subsistence harvesting within the Ngqushwa Municipality area. 15 subsistence harvesters were randomly sampled in Polar Park, Qolweni, Gcinisa and Wesley villages which fall under the Ngqushwa Municipality. These harvesters shared their willingness to move from subsistence to commercial fisheries. The use of storytelling interviews (4 subsistence), was also used by the researcher to get more information about their experiences and challenges. The survey was conducted over 7 days. One day in June, 2016 and 6 days in September, 2016. The total number of people interviewed was 21, made up of 2 key informants, 15 subsistence and 4 story telling interviews. The results showed that the community of subsistence harvesters is very discontented because they do not benefit from the sea and the marine resources although they live near the ocean. They also believe that in 22 years of democracy there is no way forward from the government. They are irate as they have witnessed the top down management style from the government. The current subsistence harvesters have little or no formal school education, (23% with no formal schooling at all, 23% with high school education between grades 8 - 12). Without the educational and skills programs from the government the subsistence harvesters will not be able to grow and create further employment opportunities for the rest of the community of Ngqushwa Municipality. The following recommendations have suggested that co-management must come from the community. It must not be people from parliament who do not feel the pain the communities are suffering. The top down approach should stop and a bottom up approach should be implemented, which will allow decisions to be made by the communities involved in harvesting. The government only needs to monitor. They (Government), have good policies, but are they are not monitored. The harvesters need training from the government. There is a need for the formulation of a development forum with learned people, churches, community leaders, young people, women, disabled, and the fishing community all represented. There is also need of support in terms of equipment, boats and education. The government needs to conduct training on fisheries and business management and provide financial support and assistance with business plans.
33
Nelani, Simphiwe. "Recapitalization on emerging farmers in the Cacadu District." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5736.
Full textAbstract:
An agricultural project as implemented by the DRDLR is seen as a strategy and an attempt to alleviate unemployment at improving lifestyle and livelihoods on farms. This study attempts to explore the impact of agricultural projects on alleviating unemployment in the Cacadu District in Grahamstown. The research topic attempts to establish whether these unemployment alleviation projects had sufficient impact and contributed to socio-economic developments of the emerging farmer. A sample of the respondents involved in an agricultural project funded through Recapitalization programme by DRDLR participated in this study. A purposive sampling method was used for this study. Data collected was gathered through semi-structured questionnaires. Related literature that focuses on agricultural projects for alleviation of unemployment has been reviewed. Various recommendations based on findings of the study have also been made. Among findings that were made, it emerged that the Recapitalisation Programme has not made sufficient impact on the alleviation of unemployment. Findings if the study indicates that beneficiaries were not trained sufficiently with financial management skills which are key in equipping them to make substantial profits from their farm. The research findings indicated that the strategies that were used by the department through Recapitalisation were not effective enough to achieve the desired outcomes of alleviation of unemployment.
34
De, Wet C. J. "An analysis of the social and economic consequences of residential relocation arising out of the implementation of an agricultural development scheme in a rural Ciskei village." Thesis, Rhodes University, 1986. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008090.
Full textAbstract:
From preface: This dissertation is concerned with the impact of the implementation of a particular kind of agricultural development project, viz. Betterment Planning, upon a rural Black village in the Keiskammahoek Magisterial District of the Ciskei, in South Africa. The project was implemented in the mid-1960s, and involved the re-organisation of the village environment into demarcated arable, grazing and residential areas, which necessitated the villagers moving from their old, scattered residential clusters to several new, concentrated residential areas. This dissertation seeks to trace the consequences of this development project, and particularly the socio-economic consequences of the residential relocation that it involved.
35
Mahieu, Alain. "Fish-farming in South Africa : a study of the market environment and the suitable species." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/96760.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MPhil)--Stellenbosch University, 2015.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Emerging global trends towards sustainable development have placed emphasis on the
need to create sustainable food value chains. Many food value chains are becoming
weakened through their reliance on eco-systems that are deteriorating. Furthermore, while
food systems are under threat, global food consumption is on the rise. The conundrum
seems inescapable.
Humanity’s food supply methods have moved on from hunter-gatherer characteristics apart
from the exception of the fishing industry. The current generation may be the last to witness
the wide-spread practice of fishing. Aquaculture, and in particular fish-farming, has begun to
show much potential as a method of producing sustainable sources of protein. Whether this
can be utilized in the South African context is a challenge that needs to be verified.
This research, presented as two articles, explores the potential for the development of the
fish-farming sector in South Africa, and recommends suitable species. Although there is
some literature on how fish-farming may have a place in South Africa’s sustainability quest, it
is scarce. This research aims to enhance the literature base on fish-farming in South Africa,
as well as provide further evidence on what the true potential is for fish-farming in South
Africa. This was done through a series of primary and secondary data collection methods
that allow for a thorough analysis of fish-farming in South Africa and the species involved.
The analysis revealed that the fish-farming sector and the cultivatable species in South
Africa are met with an array of opportunities and challenges. Overcoming these challenges
will open the doors to exploit the opportunities available.<br>AFRIKAANS OPSOMMING: Opkomende globale tendense weerspieël dat dit noodsaaklik is dat klem gelê moet word op
volhoubare ontwikkeling en dat dit van uitterste belang is om volhoubare voedsel
waardekettings te skep. Verskeie voedsel waardekettings raak verswak deur hul
afhanklikheid van eko-stelsels wat vernietig word. Verder, terwyl voedsel stelsels bedreig
word, is globale verbruik van voedsel besig om te verhoog. Dié raaisel lyk onvermydelik.
Mensdom se huidige voedselvoorraad metodes het aansienlik ontwikkel van dié van die
jagter-versamelaars, met die uitsondering van die visbedryf. Die huidige generasie mag die
laaste wees, wat die wyd verspreide praktyk van visvang beoefen, om daarvan te getuig.
Akwakultuur, in besonder vis-boerdery, het begin om potensiaal te wys as 'n volhoubare
bron in die vervaardiging van proteïen. Of dit in die Suid-Afrikaanse konteks gebruik kan
word, is 'n uitdaging wat geverifieer moet word.
Hierdie navorsing, wat aangebied word as twee tydskrifartikels, ondersoek die potensiaal vir
die ontwikkeling van vis-boerdery in Suid-Afrika, en beveel ook gepaste spesies aan.
Alhoewel daar sommige artikels is oor hoe vis-boerdery kan in pas in Suid-Afrika se soeke
na volhoubaarheid, is dit skaars te vinde. Die navorsing beoog om die literatuur basis van
vis-boerdery in Suid-Afrika op te skerp, en ter selfde tyd verdere bewys te gee oor die ware
potensiaal van vis-boerdery in Suid-Afrika. Dit was gedoen deur 'n reeks van primêre en
sekondêre data-insameling metodes wat voorsiening maak vir 'n deeglike ontleding van visboerdery
in Suid -Afrika en die spesies betrokke.
Die ontleding het getoon dat die vis-boerdery bedryf en die aankweek spesies in Suid-Afrika
verskeie geleenthede en uitdagings in die gesig staar. Oorwinning van hierdie uitdagings sal
dit moontlik maak om die beskikbare geleenthede te ontgin.
36
Arowolo, Steven Alaba. "Implications of food value chain support structures for water resource management by smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape Province." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001027.
Full textAbstract:
Smallholder agriculture is faced with so many challenges despite all the policies and programmes that have been channelled towards ensuring improvement in this sector. Improving smallholder agricultural productivity requires that smallholder farmers gain access to reliable and adequate farmer support services such as physical infrastructures like good road network, functional irrigation facilities, extension services, finance and efficient marketing system. However, these support services are lacking in a vast majority of the rural communities in which the smallholder farmers live and work. This study is centred on governance within the food value chains, with specific focus on butternuts and chicken value chains;with a view to identifying those factors preventing smallholder farmers from accessing the mainstream market. Ciko and Mbozi villages in Mbashe local municipality were used as the research sites for the study. Data were collected across the two villages through sampling of 100 individual farming households based on random selection; questionnaires and checklist of questions were used as tools to access information from farmers through focus group discussions, personal interviews and key informants. In addition,Ciko Santrini project and foundation community project, which are the two agricultural community projects located within the study area were also investigated. Conceptual and analytical frameworks were employed in the research analysis. Williamson’s 4-level of social analysis and the sustainable livelihood frameworks were used to conceptualize the analysis. Inferential analysis was carried out using binary logistic regression and discriminant analysis with focus on butternuts and cSmallholder agriculture is faced with so many challenges despite all the policies and programmes that have been channelled towards ensuring improvement in this sector. Improving smallholder agricultural productivity requires that smallholder farmers gain access to reliable and adequate farmer support services such as physical infrastructures like good road network, functional irrigation facilities, extension services, finance and efficient marketing system. However, these support services are lacking in a vast majority of the rural communities in which the smallholder farmers live and work. This study is centred on governance within the food value chains, with specific focus on butternuts and chicken value chains;with a view to identifying those factors preventing smallholder farmers from accessing the mainstream market. Ciko and Mbozi villages in Mbashe local municipality were used as the research sites for the study. Data were collected across the two villages through sampling of 100 individual farming households based on random selection; questionnaires and checklist of questions were used as tools to access information from farmers through focus group discussions, personal interviews and key informants. In addition,Ciko Santrini project and foundation community project, which are the two agricultural community projects located within the study area were also investigated. Conceptual and analytical frameworks were employed in the research analysis. Williamson’s 4-level of social analysis and the sustainable livelihood frameworks were used to conceptualize the analysis. Inferential analysis was carried out using binary logistic regression and discriminant analysis with focus on butternuts and chicken production among the smallholder farmers in the study area to determine factors that could encourage farmers ‘access markets. The results showed that factors such as; assistance from government agency, partnerships with private and public institutions and farmers’ decision due to access to information were significant at 1% level for both butternuts and chicken production. On the other hand, factors such as provision of input subsidy and farmers’ membership of agricultural development projects are significant at 5% level. The findings suggest that adoption of any or combination of the significant factors could serve as good support structures for farmers and they could directly help them market their produce efficiently.
37
Rali, Jongikhaya. "Agriculture as a contributor to local economic development (LED) in Nkonkobe Local Municipality." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020402.
Full textAbstract:
Africa while being underdeveloped in terms of industry and infrastructure has much rural land and therefore has significant potential to provide global food security. This study investigates agriculture as a contributor to economic development of Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. While the potential of agriculture, in Nkonkobe Local Municipality is high, this sector has not been fully developed to the benefit of the community and the municipality at large. The results of this study have pointed out that the Eastern Cape, Nkonkobe Local Municipality in particular is where communal farming is practiced on the largest scale and where further growth can take place. This study is informed by the goals of reconstruction and development, as expressed in the Government’s Reconstruction and Development Programme (1995) tabled to meet the basic needs of the people, develop its human resources and to build the local economy. This study aims to transform Nkonkobe Local Municipality into an economically developed area of Amathole District Municipality, by improving the area’s agricultural contribution to the Local Economic Development (LED) of the area. This study supports entrepreneurship and innovation, job creation, raising the quality of basic services to the poorest citizens of Nkonkobe Local Municipality, and increasing the distribution of agricultural land to small holders. This study promotes the development of agricultural sector, which will enable it to absorb more low skilled labour which will assist in poverty alleviation, and promote LED initiatives. This study also develops and promotes the sustainable contribution of agriculture to LED programmes, and improves the participation of local communities in these programmes. The study was conducted using qualitative research methodology. The findings of the study reveal that agricultural infrastructure in support of LED in Nkonkobe Local Municipality must be established and improved. Such infrastructure should include the reticulation of services, such as irrigation schemes, big dams, farming equipment, tractors, laboratories, cold storages and communication links. These services are currently inadequate in the area, and hamper development and progress that the area clearly has great potential to add in terms of global food security and poverty alleviation.
38
Jakavula, Siyabulela Cornelius. "Effectiveness of the high value crop-based extension model in improving rural livelihoods." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007533.
Full textAbstract:
The problem that is researched in this study relates to the effectiveness of the extension model applied in the High Value Crop programme in improving rural livelihoods in the Eastern Cape. The extent of poverty in rural areas in the Eastern Cape motivated for the intervention of the Is‘Baya through the introduction of Integrated Village Renewal Programme (IVRP). The need to improve the quality of life of rural households through the promotion of agriculture and industry gave rise to the collaborative effort between the Is‘Baya Development Trust and Agricultural Research Council (ARC) in South Africa. The HVC programme was established to mitigate the effects of food shortage and poverty through the production of fruit trees, herbs and vegetables at household level. Evaluation of the effectiveness of this collaborative effort was carried out in four local municipalities of the OR Tambo District and these included: King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality (Zangci); Nyadeni municipality (Hluleka); Port St Johns municipality (Noqhekwana) and Ngquza Hill municipality (Hombe). An equal number of villages where Siyazondla was implemented by DRDAR were visited for the survey to relate the extension model applied with HVC. The villages visited included: OR Tambo (Mhlontlo local municipality) Xhokonxa village; Amathole (Amahlathi local municipality) Ndakana village, (Ngqushwa local municipality) Mgababa village and (Mbhashe local municipality) Mbanyana village. The broad objective of the study therefore, was to evaluate the effectiveness of the extension model applied on the HVC programme as well as to identify the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders involved in the model. The specific objectives of the study were to describe the HVC based extension model as it is currently organized and implemented in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in relation to the erstwhile Siyazondla programme, to establish the effectiveness of the extension model in terms of skills transfer and capacity development, to determine the socio-economic impact of the extension model on the livelihood of involved households, to establish the extent to which the extension model has empowered women and youths and to study the factors that has contributed to the sustainability of the extension model. In carrying out this research and in line with the practice of Agricultural Research for Development (ARD), qualitative and quantitative methods of information gathering were applied. Group approach such as the Rural Rapid Appraisal (RRA) and the Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) methods of data collection were used. These tools include semi-structured interviews, focus-group discussions, transect walks, seasonal calendars, key-informant interviews, resource maps and secondary data. A sample of 149 respondents was selected from eight villages in the OR Tambo and Amathole districts. The HVC model was analysed using qualitative approach, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The Is‘Baya/ARC extension model is thus said to be effective in meeting the objectives of the HVC programme due to the efficient transfer of skills and technology and its positive impact on the livelihood of the people. There was also an improvement of the income and food security status of the rural dwellers in O.R Tambo district. The regression analysis model was applied and the results of the model were significant to the highest income earned. Out of 22 explanatory variables fitted in the regression model, 12 were significant. The R² and adjusted R² are 73 percent and 68 percent respectively which shows the significance of the fitted variables in the model. The very high F value of 15.427 shows strong significance of the fitted variables to the model. The study therefore concluded that the HVC based extension model implemented by Is‘Baya and ARC was very effective in improving rural livelihoods. The study further recommended investment in infrastructure, market linkages, value adding, public-private partnerships, creation of tenure security, investigation of different funding sources, investment on agricultural research, extension of skills provided and implementation of similar model by the public sector.
39
Gedze, Ntombebhongo. "Government-sponsored community development projects as poverty alleviation tools: evidence from Mdantsane, East London." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005995.
Full textAbstract:
The study investigates whether government-sponsored community development projects in the township of Mdantsane, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa, have achieved the intended goal of alleviating poverty among the beneficiaries. The specific outcomes of poverty alleviation are: improved income, acquisition of new skills, reduced dependence on welfare grants. Four urban farming projects were selected, namely: Buffalo City Organic Producers, Sakhisizwe Nursery, Lusindiso Farmer’s Trading Co-operative and Mbombela Co-operative. Focus group discussions and a mini survey were conducted with project beneficiaries, while relevant government officials were interviewed. Conceptual insights were drawn from community development theory. The findings showed that the broader context within which the projects occurred was characterised by a pro-poor social policy, relative availability of resources with which to translate it into action, and a measure of entrepreneurial potential amongst community members. However, while one of the projects showed some promise (in the sense that beneficiaries acquired new skills and had a generally positive attitude despite not enjoying any improved income status), all the others appeared doomed and trapped in dynamics such as: excessive government control of the management of the initiatives, ineffective project monitoring, and the mischaracterisation of the initiatives by both the government and the beneficiaries. A distorted sense of ownership and perverse community participation seemed to prevail, which in turn robbed the initiatives of their poverty alleviation potential. The study thus concluded that specific benefactor-beneficiary dynamics are crucial for the success of a given anti-poverty intervention. A robust pro-poor social policy, availability of resources with which to translate it into action, and local entrepreneurial potential do not in themselves bring about success; they must operate in a certain way and be undergirded by certain principles for them to become a powerful mechanism for alleviating poverty. It is against this background that the researcher offers some recommendations.
40
Nchabeleng, Manankele Jacob. "Assessing the impact of the Department of Agriculture Farm Together Programme on development and growth of selected agricultural co-operatives in Capricorn District Municipality in Limpopo Province." Thesis, University of Limpopo, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10386/1647.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (M.Dev.) -- University of Limpopo, 2016<br>In 2010, the South African Department of Agriculture rolled out the Farm Together Agricultural Co-operative Training Programme (Farm Together Programme) to support the development and growth of selected agricultural co-operatives nationwide. This study is an impact assessment of the programme, focusing on the Capricorn District Municipality in the Limpopo Province. A survey of co-operative members whose co-operatives had participated in the programme and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders were conducted. The findings provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the programme. Overall, the programme was relevant and comprehensive. It provided the basic skills needed to run co-operatives. However, there has been minimum impact on growth and development. Gaps identified in the programme include lack of ongoing mentoring, monitoring and evaluation of progress being made in setting up structures to support growth and development. Women with low levels of literacy dominate the membership. Further research is required to explore why the youth and men do not participate in co-operatives.
41
Xaba, Sharon Thembi. "Analysis of the impact of training and capacity building by CASP on raising the income levels of emerging farmers in Limpopo Province." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/97429.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MDF)--Stellenbosch University, 2014.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The South African government continues to provide post-settlement support to emerging farmers, with the objective of improving productivity through targeted funding or conditional grants. The Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), which came into effect in 2004, provides funding targeted at supporting emerging farmers. CASP has six pillars, of which this study focused on one, which is capacity building and training. The study investigated the assessment of the impact of training on the projects’ beneficiaries who had benefited from the CASP pillar of training and capacity building in the Limpopo Province.
The methodology applied was the difference-in-difference technique. Projects that benefited from funding were regarded as the treatment group and those that did not benefit from the programme were regarded as the control group.
The justification for the research was that while the government had financed CASP through fiscal allocation since 2004, because CASP is a conditional grant, there was a need to review the programme, focusing on establishing whether the budget allocation had achieved its intended objectives during this time.
The objectives of the study were to measure whether there had been an improvement in the beneficiaries’ income levels. It focused on the status of the projects prior to the beneficiaries receiving training and benefiting from capacity building, and what the status was after receiving training through the programme, with the key determinant being an increase in income levels.
Not all funded projects had benefited from the particular pillar investigated here. The selection of the beneficiaries to be trained was based on a skills audit which treated the groups as homogeneous, which was found to be inappropriate because of the differences in the prior skills, education levels and the specific interests of individuals.
The findings were that there was variation in the increase of income levels. There was a positive relationship between training and reported increase in income levels in some projects, and a negative relationship between training and income levels for other projects. It was interesting that income levels increased for projects that had benefited from the CASP pillar of training and capacity building when the projects were analysed as a group, but when projects were analysed individually, it was revealed that there was a marginal decrease in income levels.
There should be a shift in policy. The focus on training and capacity building should be a priority and should occur prior to the projects receiving infrastructure support. The 10% of the total CASP budget allocated for training and capacity building needs to be reviewed, taking into account that low skills levels continue to be the main reason why projects are not sustainable. There is also a need to review the impact of training. The type of training offered should not be generic for all projects, it should be differentiated to suit the both the people and the commodities concerned and should be more biased towards entrepreneurship, as this would enable emerging farmers to grow their business units and realise increased income levels.
42
Wana, Lundi. "A study of two irrigation projects in the Kat River Valley, Eastern Cape: with specific reference to land reforms and agriculture." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021084.
Full textAbstract:
Post-apartheid South Africa has derived a legacy of massive inequalities in both income and access to services, with the worst poverty being located in the rural areas. The rationale of this study aims to examine two irrigation projects in the Kat River Valley, Eastern Cape, with specific reference to land reforms and agriculture. The study also aims to explore and document the challenges facing agricultural production in the Kat River Valley, with a specific focus on Gallawater farm. The study seeks to examine the impact and relevance of social and economic production networks on the daily management of the Gallawater farm. The outcomes of the study finds that management of agricultural projects is needed to provide infrastructural support through state investment, particularly within agricultural extension services, the provision of basic amenities and human resource development of skills. This can potentially resuscitate income levels and encourage investment into agriculture in the Eastern Cape. Methodologically, the study draws on information collected using in-depth interviews on the Gallawater farm where a total of twenty five individuals were interviewed.
43
Fadana, Yanga Yolanda. "Factors in the success or failure of selected urban agricultural projects in Nelson Mandela Bay." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8306.
Full textAbstract:
Sustainable agriculture is explained by Reddy (1995: 22) as the ability for agricultural projects to produce crops and at the same time be able to maintain production without failing. With growing populations in urban areas, the importance of urban agriculture has become increasingly important. This research aims to study the factors that contribute to the success and failure of selected urban agricultural projects within the Nelson Mandela Bay by looking at how the community benefits from two selected community projects. It is however important to note that there are various factors contributing to the success and failure of any project. This research looks into the viability of the environment that the projects are in, the level of community membership, ownership structures, how messages are communicated between stakeholders, and the purpose of the project as well as the resources available to see the project through. Urban agriculture becomes a very important practice to the urban poor, as it subsidizes household income when the produce is sold and reduces expenditure when it is consumed (Kirkland, 2008: 23). Zooming into the Nelson Mandela Bay, it is evident that this practice is also beneficial for the communities in which the projects operate, however, challenges such as theft make such projects dependent on funders and donors.
44
Tshuma, Mengezi Chancellor. "An investigation of skills, knowledge and farmer support programmes of land reform beneficiaries :a case study of Forest Hill farmers in Kenton-on-Sea in the Ndlambe Local Municipality." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013109.
Full textAbstract:
black owners by white colonialists. Even though whites made up less than 20% of the nation‟s population, they took more than 80% of the agriculturally productive land and drove the original owners to the unproductive reserves where they were cramped and could not practice agriculture at all. Various acts such as the Black Land Act of 1913, Development Trust Act of 1936 and the Native Laws Amendment Act of 1937 were introduced which further frustrated the displaced black population thereby plunging it deeper and deeper into poverty. The main objective behind the introduction of these acts was to restrain the black population from earning livelihoods through agriculture thus forcing them to offer their labour to white farmers for low wages just to earn some form of livelihood. Such unfair practices and distribution of land prompted the first democratically elected government of South Africa to embark on a drive to redistribute the nation‟s land equitably amongst its citizens to foster national reconciliation, stimulate economic growth and compensate those that were forced out or lost their land during the apartheid era. This initiative was called the Land Reform Programme (LRP) and was implemented with three prongs namely (i) land redistribution; (ii) restitution; and (iii) land tenure. Among the beneficiaries of the LRP were farmers from a community called Marselle in Kenton-on-sea. In addition to getting land for farming purposes, the Marselle farmers also obtained financial support from the government‟s Land Bank to help them kick-start their farming activities. However, in spite of such interventions, they have struggled to turn their activities into sustainable livelihood sources. One most likely cause for this is the lack of farming knowledge and skills needed to make them more efficient and productive. This study was thus geared towards evaluating the knowledge and skills gap in Marselle which, when addressed, could make the Marselle farmers more productive. Its focus was limited to the 32 livestock and 8 chicory farmers that are recognized members of their respective projects. Focus was limited only to these farmers since the next phase of this study will involve building their capacity based on the skills gaps identified through this study. The findings showed that the two projects benefited at least 130 individuals belonging to the farming households, with 67.5% of these households headed by males. The age of these farmers was equally shared at 40% each between those above 65 years and those that only went as far as fourth grade. No one went to tertiary at all. At least 75% of the investigated farmers were unemployed and 42% of this population was pensioners. In terms of income though, 64.98% of it was from external sources. The Masakhane Silime (Chicory) project was implemented to generate income and provide job opportunities for the locals but neither of these objectives had been met at the time the data for this study was collected due to various challenges like lack of funds and infrastructure to enhance productivity. Just like the chicory project, the livestock project had its own objectives, namely; to remove animals from the residential areas, provide the animals with a safe place, reduce road accidents and also to provide a livelihood source for local farmers. Due to overgrazing the pastures, lack of proper camps and other challenges, some effort still needs to be put to achieve these objectives. Even though the livestock project was formed with these objectives in mind, the farmers themselves reared livestock either for personal consumption, selling, ritual purposes, store of wealth or all these combined. Regarding technical skills, livestock farmers were found to rely mostly on indigenous knowledge sources to attain farming knowledge. Only animal healthcare knowledge was popular to more than half the respondents. This was said to be due to the focus group meetings held on the farm every other Wednesday to share information with local extension officers. In spite of these information sharing events, livestock farmers identified training on how to feed; market; handle; and treat their livestock as key intervention knowledge areas. Attendance to these focus group meetings was limited to livestock farmers only. Various socio-economic factors were also found to have some form of influence on the acquisition of livestock knowledge. Education was the most dominant factor, with a significant association with the farmers‟ feeding (p=0.033); animal healthcare (P=0.038); marketing (p=0.009); veld management (p=0.036); and cattle slaughtering (p=0.027) knowledge. Other variables most influential include the gender and age of the household head. The former was significant at 95% confidence level for farmers‟ feeding knowledge (p=0.021); animal healthcare (p=0.039); marketing (p=0.043); livestock housing and handling (p=0.023); veld management (p=0.018); and cattle slaughtering (p=0.043). The dominance of males in acquiring these skills could be explained by the fact that the majority of the livestock project members were males. The majority of the few female members became members by default after the passing on of their husbands but their participation in the project was done through other project members who looked after their animals on their behalf. The number of farming years also had some positive and significant influence on other knowledge areas such as feeding (p=0.021) and livestock housing and handling (p=0.013). The logic supporting this association is that farmers tend to accumulate new and more skills the longer they stay in the same enterprise. In addition, most of the interviewed farmers were farm labourers prior to relocating to Marselle hence they acquired the necessary knowledge long before the project started. Concerning the chicory project, its members also relied heavily on indigenous knowledge sources for farming knowledge. Soil preparation (24.1%); planting (20.7%); land care (24.1%); and mechanical weed control (48.3%) were the knowledge areas lacked by more than half the respondents. The farmers identified land preparation (75%); communication skills (25%); marketing (100%); financial management (62%); and harvesting (88%) as the key crucial intervention areas they needed prioritized. As a study meant to inform the capacity building phase of the Land Bank project, this study identified the existing skills gaps in the two projects implemented in Forest Hill. When implementing the Capacity Building (CB) phase, various socio-economic factors will have to be considered. For example, the proposed intervention should not discriminate against anyone on the grounds of gender or physical abilities. The skills introduced should also be simple enough to be accepted and acquired even by the illiterate, especially when one considers the high illiteracy levels amongst the respondents. Efforts should also be made to create partnerships with the right organizations or groups of people so that they provide the required expertise and resources for the benefit of the farmers as and when required.
45
Ngwenya, Kwanele. "Factors affecting rural farming households’ willingness to participate in a proposed irrigation scheme: a situation analysis of Guquka in Nkonkobe District Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007145.
Full textAbstract:
Previous studies conducted in the study area recommended an irrigation scheme as a much desired intervention in order to reduce poverty levels, reduce unemployment, provide a livelihood for the households and trigger development. The Land Bank of South Africa has shown keen interest to provide funds to set up an irrigation scheme in Guquka. Absence of peoples’ involvement and farmer participation has been identified as one of the causes of poor performance of smallholder irrigation schemes in South Africa. The poor performance of smallholder irrigation projects in South Africa provided a good basis for exploring factors that could possibly affect farmer participation and the success of the proposed irrigation scheme. This knowledge would be useful to providers of extension services, capital providers, policy makers and the recipients of the proposed irrigation scheme. The main objective of this study was to investigate the factors affecting the willingness of farming households to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. This investigation helped to analyse demographic; socio economic situation; farming practices; economic activities; water sources, uses and management in the study area. The major tool of enquiry in this study was the questionnaire which was used to collect data from the households. Household and farm characteristics were collected using structured questionnaires with the help of locally recruited and trained enumerators. The data used for the empirical analysis was obtained from a survey of 50 farming households in Guquka, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The following variables were selected to determine the scope of their influence on farmer willingness to participate in the proposed scheme: age; membership in local group; investment in agriculture, educational level of the farmers, knowledge, household size, labour and gender. A logit model was used to determine the extent to which these selected characteristics influence the willingness of farmers to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. The results showed that willingness to participate in the scheme was significantly influenced by the afore mentioned variables as well as knowledge about the planned irrigation scheme which is mainly provided by extension agents; and total household income. Age was found to decrease the willingness of farmers to participate in irrigation. A positive association existed between participation and the following variables; membership in local group, investment in agriculture, educational level of the farmers and knowledge. On the other hand, household size, labour and gender were not significant variables affecting willingness to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. Based on the results from the logit regression model, it can be concluded that membership in a local group, investment in agriculture, education, knowledge and total household income are responsible for increasing the probability of participation. The negative relationship on age and participation indicates that the older the person is, the lesser the chances of participation. It is recommended that stakeholders should improve access to education and farmer training programmes. Support systems to disseminate information, training and knowledge should be enhanced. Improving institutional support and access to financial services should be prioritised by the stakeholders in the study area. Further studies on building institutional capacity and a cost benefit analysis of irrigation options in the study area are recommended.
46
Libala, Phumlani. "Local government food security strategies: the Qamata Irrigation Scheme." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2919.
Full textAbstract:
Many households in South Africa are exposed to extreme food insecurity that threatens their livelihoods. Authorities in the local sphere of government have employed food security strategies to curb the trail of food insecurity that prevails in many rural households. However, high levels of food insecurity in many households in across the country, especially those living in rural areas like Qamata Village, are noteworthy. Contributing factors to this problem are attributed to local government’s inability to successfully stimulate agricultural production in the face of climate change. The research aimed at assessing the impact of Qamata Irrigation Scheme intervention programmes or strategies in Qamata Village. It was discovered that livelihoods of many households in Qamata Village rely heavily on agricultural production to access food. Limited government support, poor planning and failure to invest on climate change adaptation strategies were identified as serious impediments in the implementation of food security strategies. Due to the enormity of the problem and extensive nature of local government, this study focussed on the Qamata Irrigation Scheme, in the Qamata Village within Chris Hani District Municipality. For the purposes of this study, qualitative research methods were used to gather an in-depth understanding and verification of the problem. Research tools used were mainly semi structured interviews and focus group discussions. Interviews were conducted with farmers in the Qamata Irrigation Scheme and focus group discussion were held with dry land farming households in the Qamata Village and representatives from the CHDM. Findings of the study revealed that the decline in agricultural production due to climate changes has not only fuelled food insecurity for dry land farming households but put these households in an economically disadvantaged position. This was a major concern for this research especially with agricultural production being identified as a livelihood strategy for many households in the Qamata Village.
47
Tali, Patrick. "Evaluation and identification of critical success factors in the running of successful food security projects within the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, in the Amahlhathi local municipality." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013346.
Full textAbstract:
The challenges of food insecurity and the manner in which it can be addressed is a global concern. Governments throughout the world have strived for means to address global food security either through development of Millennium Development Goals or United Nations protocols. It is a major concern that the South African Government has made it its centre focus to address the challenge of food security. In the Eastern Cape, the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform has embarked on numerous food production programmes in an attempt to address this challenge. It is however noticeable that these attempts somehow did not manage to address their intended purpose. A study of literature with the aim of identifying critical success factors was done. The critical success factors identified and explored were, project management, establishing a clear mission and project objectives, addressing challenges and opportunities of social, environmental and economical sustainability, addressing physiological needs of the beneficiaries, involving the youth and community, role of extension services, training and capacity development, create local partnership and on-going monitoring and evaluation. The factors were then explored through a study of projects from the food production programme in Amahlathi Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province. A multiple case study wherein a purposive selection of four food security projects selected from two food security programmes was conducted. A structured questionnaire was used to source the information from all members of the selected projects to evaluate the existence of the critical factors. The main aim was to test whether these factors, if they existed in these projects, contributed to their existence. The findings reveal that none of the identified factors existed in the selected projects and though not proven, the non-existence of these factors has resulted in these projects being in survival mode instead of a sustainable state. A recommendation is made of a further study focusing on a bigger sample wherein these factors could be tested. The study could assist in developing a formal model for the running of these projects successfully.
48
Ngxetwane, Vuyolwethu. "Integrated crop-livestock farming system for sustainable economic empowerment of small-scale and emerging farmers in the former homeland of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa: a case study of Ciskei area in Nkonkobe municipality." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/459.
Full textAbstract:
For decades, there has been significant investment in the development of agricultural technologies that aim to increase productivity of smallholder farmers in Africa. But farm output and productivity have stagnated and poverty rates have remained high and even increasing in some areas. At the same time, increases in human population levels have resulted in rising demand for food as well as for arable land. The growing intensification of farming has been accompanied by degradation of wild lands, including tropical forests and wetlands, at an alarming rate. Further pressure on fragile land has come from associated urbanization, leading to agricultural land being converted to residential and industrial uses with serious consequences for agricultural production and food supply. The recent increases in food prices across the globe as well as South Africa have drawn attention to this problem even more strongly. The main objective of the current study was to investigate farmer’s perception of the relative importance of crop-livestock integration in the small holder farming systems. Data were collected from 70 emerging and smallholder farmers selected by stratified random sampling in the communities surrounding Alice, Middledrift and the Seymour- Balfour area of Nkonkobe municipality of the Eastern Cape Province. To collect the data, a semi-structure questionnaire was administered to the respondents through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the farmers in terms of their socio-economic and demographic backgrounds. A series of multiple linear regression models and a binary logistic regression equation were fitted to determine the factors influencing farmers’ perception and how these in turn contribute to the decision to adopt or not to adopt crop-livestock integration. The results of the study reveal that small farmers in the Nkonkobe municipality have the possibility of realizing immense benefits from the integrated systems which also have the potential to lead to substantial improvements of the physical, chemical and biological soil properties. There is clear evidence of widespread interest to experiment with the practices based on the strong positive perceptions that a majority of the survey farmers exhibited during the course of the survey. But the farmers are facing challenges in coping with the associated complexities of competition on land, and management skill which are often in limited supply. That in most cases is not enough and efficient even to manage one of these two enterprises alone and reduction in crops yield due to use of manure as a substitute of fertilizer. Constraints to integrating crops and livestock include the competition for resources, especially land. Managing two types of farming on the same farm was perceived as difficult and many respondents held the view that use of waste of one enterprise as input to the other enterprise can reduce productivity. For example some farmers considered that the use of manure to improve soil fertility may not lead to output growth to the same extent as the use of fertilizer. A number of farmers (86%) pointed out that they only market their produce after deducting their consumption share, highlighting the crucial role of food security as a motivation for crop-livestock integration. Complementation of inputs rather than substituting inputs is required to render the system more productive and sustainable as costs are minimized and output is boosted. Associations of grain and livestock producers are useful for filling these gaps which include limited access to credit, technology and knowledge and can promote the adoption of a crop-livestock system.
49
Jiba, Phiwe. "Evaluation of the socio-economic performance of smallholder irrigation schemes in Idutywa Village of the Eastern Cape Province." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4705.
Full textAbstract:
South Africa and other African countries are faced with high levels of food insecurity and poverty levels as a result of slow growth of the macro economy and weak or sluggish rural development. Irrigation scheme development is seen as an important strategy to address the challenges faced by households in rural areas and restores growth and enhanced livelihoods. While the international experience shows that Irrigation schemes are potentially transformative of poor communities and have been operational for many years now, there is no marked improvement in living conditions of rural households in terms of livelihoods and income. This raises the question as to whether or not the schemes are viable from a socio-economic perspective and whether or not there are reasons for concern and revision of the policy framework for smallholder irrigation schemes. As a result of that, the broad objective of the study was to evaluate the contribution of smallholder irrigation schemes to household income and food security of rural households in Idutywa village of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. Specifically, this research investigated the major factors that influence their performance, impact of irrigation farming on rural livelihood and household food security as well as identifying the possible opportunities of production that would improve their performance. The study was carried out in Idutywa villages of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa and employed survey data obtained from 107 households. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and the study employed stratified random sampling. The study made use of descriptive and inferential statistics to estimate the central tendency and dispersion as well as testing the hypothesis that there is a difference in the contribution between irrigators and non-irrigators using STATA and SPSS. Probit regression model was used to estimate factors that influenced the performance of smallholder irrigation schemes. The descriptive statistics employed included means, percentages and frequencies on the socio-economic characteristics of households in the study areas. The results show that females were dominant with a representation of 66.7 percent. The majority of households were aged and the mean age was 65 years. High level of illiteracy in the project area was revealed by the data. The average number of years, households spent in school was between 6 years to 10 years in school. Farming was found to be the major agricultural economic activity. Sixty-three (63 percent) were full time farmers. The results further show that household size ranges between 1 to 5 persons. The households were shown to be mostly dependent on social grant with household income hovering around R 1 000. The results from propensity score matching revealed that irrigation exerts a positive impact on household income. This provides sufficient evidence that irrigation schemes do make a contribution to rural livelihoods through their effect on household income and food security. This implies that government should continue investing in irrigation schemes as part of a strategy to grow the rural economy and improve rural livelihoods. This is in line with the Agricultural Policy Action Plan (APAP) and National Development Plan (NDP) of South Africa. Probit analysis suggests that age of the households, household size and market were some of the key determinants that positively influenced households’ decision to participate in smallholder irrigation schemes while access to credit had significant but negative effect on households’ decision to participate in smallholder irrigation schemes. Based on the findings highlighted above, it is recommended that addressing such barriers may create enabling conditions that would encourage households to access and participate more effectively in smallholder irrigation schemes.
50
Kalazani-Mtya, Lindeka. "The empowerment of women in agriculture: does it contribute to poverty alleviation and improvement of quality of lives in rural areas?" Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/318.
Full textAbstract:
This study examines the extent to which the Siyazondla food programme, which is a woman based project, empowers women with agricultural skills and knowledge to alleviate poverty and improve their quality of lives in Ducats North area in East London. The investigation is based on the argument that when a woman is empowered, poverty will be reduced and the quality of life will improve. Through the use of qualitative research methodology, all women who are the main beneficiaries of the Siyazondla programme in Ducats North village were interviewed. Findings seem to indicate that although women in the project manage to produce good crops to feed their families, they are still not sufficiently empowered with skills and education to improve their quality of lives. This was found to be exacerbated by the fact that the officials assigned for the programme are to a greater extent inefficient and lack relevant knowledge to support beneficiaries. Most importantly, it was revealed that there is lack of monitoring and evaluation of the programme by government and this was considered to be the major constraint to successful implementation of the programme and in ensuring that poverty is alleviated in the area. It is on the basis of these findings that the study recommends that in order to yield positive results and ensure that women in the programme are empowered, there is a need to change the deeply embedded patriarchal perceptions and discriminatory practices and attitudes that seem to undervalue women‟s work. This will require greater awareness of women‟s contribution to agriculture, and the recognition of the role played by women in food security and poverty alleviation, coupled with a strong commitment from the government to empower rural women in agriculture.