Socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of in-field rainwater harvesting technololgy for enhancing household food security by small holder farmers in the Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape Province
- Shange, Nomfundo Sinethemba Queen
- Authors: Shange, Nomfundo Sinethemba Queen
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water resources development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/734 , vital:26492 , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water resources development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Infield rainwater harvesting (IRWH) technology has been used in arid and semi-arid parts of the world and promising results have been achieved in terms of increasing yield. The main aim of this study was to identify socio-economic factors determining the adoption of IRWH technology for enhancing household food security by smallholder farmers. The specific objectives were to assess the level of adoption of IRWH technology using descriptive statistics (mean, frequency and percentages). To determine socio-economic factors influencing adoption of IRWH technology, the binary logistic regression mode l was used. To determine whether adopters of IRWH technology are more food secure than non-adopters, the Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) was used as a measure for household food security. For the same objective, to determine socio-economic factors that influence household food security, the binary logistic regression model was also used and adoption of IRWH technology became an independent variable. The study was conducted in Khayalethu, Guquka and Krwakrwa villages in Nkonkobe Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province (EC). The unit of analysis was the individual smallholder farmers practicing agriculture. The availability (accidental) and snowball sampling techniques were used to select 34, 23, 63 respondents from Khayalethu, Guquka and Krwakrwa villages respectively. Since they are non-random, these sampling methods are problematic because of sampling errors. Overall, a sample size of 120 smallholder farmers was targeted for the interviews. Primary and secondary data collected was coded and analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 21. Results were presented using graphs, pie charts and tables (including cross-tables). The descriptive results showed that adoption status of IRWH technology was low in these areas, with 79% not adopting the technology. Food insecurity was high amongst the non-adopters with 86%. On the basis of descriptive analysis it can be concluded that any change in each one of the significant variables can significantly influence the probability of adopting IRWH technology and household food security. The results from the logistic regression model for the incidence of adoption revealed that 6 out of 16 variables were significant, three at 1% (access to extension services, access to information and farmers’ perception towards the IRWH technology); one at 5% (access to market) and two at 10% (access to hired labour and farm income). For the incidence of household food security, out of 17 variables, 6 were significant, three at 1% (adoption of the IRWH technology, access to extension services and farmers’ perception towards the IRWH technology); two at 5% (access to hired labour and household income) and one at 10% (household size). The empirical findings of this study indicate that there are socio-economic factors influencing adoption of IRWH technology and household food security amongst smallholder farmers. This study recommends that the government should provide extension officers and research stations with the capacity, support and physical means to expose smallholder farmers to the IRWH technology through demonstrations and trainings. The government can also introduce agricultural finance institutions in rural areas to assist the rural smallholder farmers to increase their access to credit. Further, it is recommended that smallholder farmers can expand to the communal croplands in order to gain more land size and work as a co-operative or as an association to ease labour constraints.
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- Authors: Shange, Nomfundo Sinethemba Queen
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water resources development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/734 , vital:26492 , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water resources development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Infield rainwater harvesting (IRWH) technology has been used in arid and semi-arid parts of the world and promising results have been achieved in terms of increasing yield. The main aim of this study was to identify socio-economic factors determining the adoption of IRWH technology for enhancing household food security by smallholder farmers. The specific objectives were to assess the level of adoption of IRWH technology using descriptive statistics (mean, frequency and percentages). To determine socio-economic factors influencing adoption of IRWH technology, the binary logistic regression mode l was used. To determine whether adopters of IRWH technology are more food secure than non-adopters, the Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) was used as a measure for household food security. For the same objective, to determine socio-economic factors that influence household food security, the binary logistic regression model was also used and adoption of IRWH technology became an independent variable. The study was conducted in Khayalethu, Guquka and Krwakrwa villages in Nkonkobe Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province (EC). The unit of analysis was the individual smallholder farmers practicing agriculture. The availability (accidental) and snowball sampling techniques were used to select 34, 23, 63 respondents from Khayalethu, Guquka and Krwakrwa villages respectively. Since they are non-random, these sampling methods are problematic because of sampling errors. Overall, a sample size of 120 smallholder farmers was targeted for the interviews. Primary and secondary data collected was coded and analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 21. Results were presented using graphs, pie charts and tables (including cross-tables). The descriptive results showed that adoption status of IRWH technology was low in these areas, with 79% not adopting the technology. Food insecurity was high amongst the non-adopters with 86%. On the basis of descriptive analysis it can be concluded that any change in each one of the significant variables can significantly influence the probability of adopting IRWH technology and household food security. The results from the logistic regression model for the incidence of adoption revealed that 6 out of 16 variables were significant, three at 1% (access to extension services, access to information and farmers’ perception towards the IRWH technology); one at 5% (access to market) and two at 10% (access to hired labour and farm income). For the incidence of household food security, out of 17 variables, 6 were significant, three at 1% (adoption of the IRWH technology, access to extension services and farmers’ perception towards the IRWH technology); two at 5% (access to hired labour and household income) and one at 10% (household size). The empirical findings of this study indicate that there are socio-economic factors influencing adoption of IRWH technology and household food security amongst smallholder farmers. This study recommends that the government should provide extension officers and research stations with the capacity, support and physical means to expose smallholder farmers to the IRWH technology through demonstrations and trainings. The government can also introduce agricultural finance institutions in rural areas to assist the rural smallholder farmers to increase their access to credit. Further, it is recommended that smallholder farmers can expand to the communal croplands in order to gain more land size and work as a co-operative or as an association to ease labour constraints.
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Farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and it’s effects on agricultural productivity: (the case of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipalty in Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Mdoda, Lelethu
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021294 , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Climate is an important factor of agricultural productivity and many rural dwellers in developing countries depend on agriculture and are highly affected by climate change and variability. The world is currently experiencing climatic changes and variability conditions which results in high temperatures, low rainfall patterns, shortage of water and drought persistence. Climate change and variability is affecting weather patterns and shifting seasons which results in serious repercussions on smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers are extremely vulnerable to climate change and variability because their farming and production systems are climate sensitive and are not rebound to climate stresses. These adverse effects in developing countries arise from different climate change and variability-related causes, notable extreme weather events, food security, increased health risks in agriculture from vector home diseases, and temperature-related morbidity in environments. The study was carried in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. This study examines farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and its effects on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality using a Descriptive Statistics, Binary and Ricardian Model fitted to data from a cross-sectional survey of 200 farmers in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. Both primary and secondary data was used. This research study estimates the effects of climate change and variability on King Sabata Dalindyebo agricultural productivity using a continental dimension of Ricardian analysis. Results revealed that local farmers were aware of climate change and variability and perceived changes in average temperatures and rainfall. The changes in average temperatures and rainfall had adverse effects on crop and livestock production. However, farmers’ awareness of climate change is not to an extent that they presume adaptation to climate change as a necessity and crucial. The results show that climate change and variability affects farm income and there is a non-linear relationship existing between climatic variables (temperature and precipitation) and farm income which depicts U-shaped. The study results indicated that climate change and variability affect agricultural productivity and have an effect on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. In view of the research findings, several policy proposals are suggested. The study findings suggest that climate change and variability must be taken seriously and monitored. Policy makers and government officials must support farmers with information distribution,education, market access, well trained extension agents, credit and information about mitigation strategies to climate change and variability which includes institutional and technological methods, particularly smallholder farmers.
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- Authors: Mdoda, Lelethu
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021294 , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Climate is an important factor of agricultural productivity and many rural dwellers in developing countries depend on agriculture and are highly affected by climate change and variability. The world is currently experiencing climatic changes and variability conditions which results in high temperatures, low rainfall patterns, shortage of water and drought persistence. Climate change and variability is affecting weather patterns and shifting seasons which results in serious repercussions on smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers are extremely vulnerable to climate change and variability because their farming and production systems are climate sensitive and are not rebound to climate stresses. These adverse effects in developing countries arise from different climate change and variability-related causes, notable extreme weather events, food security, increased health risks in agriculture from vector home diseases, and temperature-related morbidity in environments. The study was carried in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. This study examines farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and its effects on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality using a Descriptive Statistics, Binary and Ricardian Model fitted to data from a cross-sectional survey of 200 farmers in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. Both primary and secondary data was used. This research study estimates the effects of climate change and variability on King Sabata Dalindyebo agricultural productivity using a continental dimension of Ricardian analysis. Results revealed that local farmers were aware of climate change and variability and perceived changes in average temperatures and rainfall. The changes in average temperatures and rainfall had adverse effects on crop and livestock production. However, farmers’ awareness of climate change is not to an extent that they presume adaptation to climate change as a necessity and crucial. The results show that climate change and variability affects farm income and there is a non-linear relationship existing between climatic variables (temperature and precipitation) and farm income which depicts U-shaped. The study results indicated that climate change and variability affect agricultural productivity and have an effect on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. In view of the research findings, several policy proposals are suggested. The study findings suggest that climate change and variability must be taken seriously and monitored. Policy makers and government officials must support farmers with information distribution,education, market access, well trained extension agents, credit and information about mitigation strategies to climate change and variability which includes institutional and technological methods, particularly smallholder farmers.
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Effectiveness of the high value crop-based extension model in improving rural livelihoods
- Jakavula, Siyabulela Cornelius
- Authors: Jakavula, Siyabulela Cornelius
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work , Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11202 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007533 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work , Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: 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.
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- Authors: Jakavula, Siyabulela Cornelius
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work , Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11202 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007533 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work , Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: 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.
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Opportunities and challenges faced in promoting small holder farming as an element in rural economic development: the case of Buffalo City Municipality in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Siyabonga Makhathini
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural families -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Households -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Buffalo City (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11203 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007534 , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural families -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Households -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Buffalo City (South Africa)
- Description: This study looked at the opportunities and challenges faced in promoting smallholder farming as an element in rural economic development. The main objective is to highlight the key factors affecting smallholder production; and how those factors affect smallholder farmers in rural areas of Buffalo City Municipality, and hence identify the ones likely to predict success for future use in intervention programs. The content and scope of this study is limited to the socio-economic constraints (economic activities, household assets e.g. natural assets, physical assets, financial assets etc.) faced by rural households and therefore prescribe the necessary interventions to enhance rural livelihoods. Data was collected through review of secondary sources, direct observation through field visits and interviews with households. Questionnaires were used as the main tool of inquiry to gather data from households in selected villages within Buffalo City Municipality. The collected survey data was coded and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 19.0. The study used Descriptive, Gini Coefficient and Binary Logistics model to analyze the collected survey data. For the descriptive model, the main pointers that were employed for this study were frequencies and mean values. The Gini Coefficient model was used to measure the contribution of different sources of income to overall inequality. The binary logistic regression model was used to uncover the correlates of the household income for different rural groups (famers and non-farmers). The results reveal that farm income has a strong association to overall household income per capita. Unearned income sources also have a substantial contribution to household income. Remittances and child grants were significant to non-farming household income per capita. Given the diminishing farm size of smallholder-led agriculture; these results suggest that a diversified household income portfolio is vital in addressing poverty in rural areas. Based on the results this study concluded that agricultural activities cannot solely enhance food security.
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- Authors: Siyabonga Makhathini
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural families -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Households -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Buffalo City (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11203 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007534 , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural families -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Households -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Buffalo City (South Africa)
- Description: This study looked at the opportunities and challenges faced in promoting smallholder farming as an element in rural economic development. The main objective is to highlight the key factors affecting smallholder production; and how those factors affect smallholder farmers in rural areas of Buffalo City Municipality, and hence identify the ones likely to predict success for future use in intervention programs. The content and scope of this study is limited to the socio-economic constraints (economic activities, household assets e.g. natural assets, physical assets, financial assets etc.) faced by rural households and therefore prescribe the necessary interventions to enhance rural livelihoods. Data was collected through review of secondary sources, direct observation through field visits and interviews with households. Questionnaires were used as the main tool of inquiry to gather data from households in selected villages within Buffalo City Municipality. The collected survey data was coded and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 19.0. The study used Descriptive, Gini Coefficient and Binary Logistics model to analyze the collected survey data. For the descriptive model, the main pointers that were employed for this study were frequencies and mean values. The Gini Coefficient model was used to measure the contribution of different sources of income to overall inequality. The binary logistic regression model was used to uncover the correlates of the household income for different rural groups (famers and non-farmers). The results reveal that farm income has a strong association to overall household income per capita. Unearned income sources also have a substantial contribution to household income. Remittances and child grants were significant to non-farming household income per capita. Given the diminishing farm size of smallholder-led agriculture; these results suggest that a diversified household income portfolio is vital in addressing poverty in rural areas. Based on the results this study concluded that agricultural activities cannot solely enhance food security.
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The perceived impact of soil erosion on food security in the upper and lower areas of Didimana in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Ighodaro, Ikponmwosa David
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Soil erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Soil management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11194 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006781 , Soil erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Soil management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Due to the particular nature of accelerated soil erosion, its impact on food security is usually very intense. The impact starts first on the farmer, and then to his/ her environment. This is why soil erosion, when unchecked, is very devastating. Therefore this study was set to evaluate the perceived impact of soil erosion on food security in the Upper and Lower Areas of Didimana, Eastern Cape of South Africa, and the role farmers’ adoption behaviours play in the interaction. Three specific objectives were put forward by the study, vis-à-vis: (1) to establish farmers’ perceptions on the impact of soil erosion on food security of the study area; (2) to establish farmers’ innovation adoption behaviour with respect to soil erosion control in the study area; and (3) to establish farmers’ perceptions on the impact of extension activities with respect to soil erosion-control in the study area. The central argument of discussion is that soil erosion like every other agricultural problem, is the result of farmers’ non-adoption or inappropriate adoption of improved and recommended soil management technologies in the study area. The survey method of research was adopted for the study, where data were collected, using a well structured questionnaire, from a total of 60 farmers in the study area, through a simple random sampling process. Farmers’ perception suggested that the impact of soil erosion in their area is severe. This severity is demonstrated firstly in the form of climate change, as the time of rain in their area is gradually changing, and thus changing their time of cropping. Similarly the livelihoods of farmers are being negatively affected, as farmers’ crops, livestock, and even household feeding are being affected. More so, findings indicate that most farmers now plant fewer crops and there is an estimation of crop loss by most farmers of well between 21-60 percent of crops every year. Farmers’ perception further revealed that due to soil erosion, over 50 percent of farmers are unsustainable and a total of 71.7 percent of farmers’ population admitted that the amount of food available for their households is being severely affected. In virtually every sphere of human endeavours improved technologies have been developed to solve human problems, but the main reason problems like soil erosion is still very evident is the fact of farmers’ non-adoption or inappropriate adoption of specific recommended technologies. In the study area, the role of farmers’ adoption behaviour in the interaction of the impact of soil erosion on food security was very prominent. Findings indicate that despite the presence of certain recommended soil management technologies in the study area, majority of farmers do not use them neither extension advices. Moreover their satisfaction with those technologies was found to be low, which could be an explanation why they do not use them. For innovation to be adopted, rejected or utilized inappropriately, the effectiveness and performance of agricultural extension, as well as farmers’ perception play a great role. Thus in the study area, farmers’ perception on extension effectiveness indicates that extension hardly talk about soil erosion and its control during times of their visit. Similarly, farmers’ rating for extension services and advices was as well very low (23.4 percent). In fact, a comparison of farmers’ traditional methods of soil erosion control with extension recommendations (53.4 percent) indicated that farmers perceive their local methods of more importance than extension methods. In the same vein, majority of farmers in the area indicated that extension officers are inadequate in their jobs. Reasons offered range from issues of unreliability, lack of regular visits, communication problems, less attention for crop farming, and other reasons such as extension being unconcerned for subsistence farmers, as well as the fact that they focus more on cooperatives. In all, the findings of the descriptive statistics reveal that the impact of soil erosion on food security in the study area is very significant, and the results of the linear regression model of relationships in the study reveal that soil erosion relates positively with age of farmers, their product quality, and their sustainability. In a similar note, the innovation adoption behaviours of farmers was also found to be positively related to farm yield and food accessibility. Thus showing that innovation adoption behaviour of farmers in the interaction of soil erosion and food security in the study area is significant. Therefore, efforts should be geared toward improving factors that increases yield and accessibility of farmers to serve as boosters of farmers’ motivation towards the adoption of appropriate soil management technologies in their area.
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- Authors: Ighodaro, Ikponmwosa David
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Soil erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Soil management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11194 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006781 , Soil erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Soil management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Due to the particular nature of accelerated soil erosion, its impact on food security is usually very intense. The impact starts first on the farmer, and then to his/ her environment. This is why soil erosion, when unchecked, is very devastating. Therefore this study was set to evaluate the perceived impact of soil erosion on food security in the Upper and Lower Areas of Didimana, Eastern Cape of South Africa, and the role farmers’ adoption behaviours play in the interaction. Three specific objectives were put forward by the study, vis-à-vis: (1) to establish farmers’ perceptions on the impact of soil erosion on food security of the study area; (2) to establish farmers’ innovation adoption behaviour with respect to soil erosion control in the study area; and (3) to establish farmers’ perceptions on the impact of extension activities with respect to soil erosion-control in the study area. The central argument of discussion is that soil erosion like every other agricultural problem, is the result of farmers’ non-adoption or inappropriate adoption of improved and recommended soil management technologies in the study area. The survey method of research was adopted for the study, where data were collected, using a well structured questionnaire, from a total of 60 farmers in the study area, through a simple random sampling process. Farmers’ perception suggested that the impact of soil erosion in their area is severe. This severity is demonstrated firstly in the form of climate change, as the time of rain in their area is gradually changing, and thus changing their time of cropping. Similarly the livelihoods of farmers are being negatively affected, as farmers’ crops, livestock, and even household feeding are being affected. More so, findings indicate that most farmers now plant fewer crops and there is an estimation of crop loss by most farmers of well between 21-60 percent of crops every year. Farmers’ perception further revealed that due to soil erosion, over 50 percent of farmers are unsustainable and a total of 71.7 percent of farmers’ population admitted that the amount of food available for their households is being severely affected. In virtually every sphere of human endeavours improved technologies have been developed to solve human problems, but the main reason problems like soil erosion is still very evident is the fact of farmers’ non-adoption or inappropriate adoption of specific recommended technologies. In the study area, the role of farmers’ adoption behaviour in the interaction of the impact of soil erosion on food security was very prominent. Findings indicate that despite the presence of certain recommended soil management technologies in the study area, majority of farmers do not use them neither extension advices. Moreover their satisfaction with those technologies was found to be low, which could be an explanation why they do not use them. For innovation to be adopted, rejected or utilized inappropriately, the effectiveness and performance of agricultural extension, as well as farmers’ perception play a great role. Thus in the study area, farmers’ perception on extension effectiveness indicates that extension hardly talk about soil erosion and its control during times of their visit. Similarly, farmers’ rating for extension services and advices was as well very low (23.4 percent). In fact, a comparison of farmers’ traditional methods of soil erosion control with extension recommendations (53.4 percent) indicated that farmers perceive their local methods of more importance than extension methods. In the same vein, majority of farmers in the area indicated that extension officers are inadequate in their jobs. Reasons offered range from issues of unreliability, lack of regular visits, communication problems, less attention for crop farming, and other reasons such as extension being unconcerned for subsistence farmers, as well as the fact that they focus more on cooperatives. In all, the findings of the descriptive statistics reveal that the impact of soil erosion on food security in the study area is very significant, and the results of the linear regression model of relationships in the study reveal that soil erosion relates positively with age of farmers, their product quality, and their sustainability. In a similar note, the innovation adoption behaviours of farmers was also found to be positively related to farm yield and food accessibility. Thus showing that innovation adoption behaviour of farmers in the interaction of soil erosion and food security in the study area is significant. Therefore, efforts should be geared toward improving factors that increases yield and accessibility of farmers to serve as boosters of farmers’ motivation towards the adoption of appropriate soil management technologies in their area.
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Application of the sustainable livelihoods framework to the analysis of the Provincial Growth and Development Plan of the Eastern Cape: a case study of the Massive Food Production Programme in Nkonkobe Municipality and Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Dirwayi, Tafadzwa P
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11159 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/353 , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The Government of the Eastern Cape Province introduced the Massive Food Production programme, which is a cornerstone within the agrarian reform initiative of the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP). The programme has been going on for more than seven years, however little has been documented on its impact. The main objective of the study was to investigate the impact of the Massive Food Production Programme on the livelihoods in Nkonkobe Municipality. This study did not only investigate its impact on the participants but also assessed its impact on the recipient communities. Accordingly, the specific objectives of the study were to investigate the impact of the Massive Food Programme on the asset base of participants, the general livelihood activities, and the livelihood outcomes. Among other livelihood activities, the study made an in-depth investigation on the impact of the Massive Food Production Programme on maize crop production. This is because the Massive Food Production was aimed at maize crop production. Previous studies investigated on the indicators of success that can be used to measure the impact of this programme. After the wide-ranging evaluation of views, arguments and research findings, a model to measure impact of the programme was designed. The asset base improvement was used as the proxy of impact. Nine factors were selected from the principal component analysis of the many factors that were taken to affect participation. Three other dummy variables to proximate location, participation and group turnover were added to the regression model that was developed to measure impact. The DFID Sustainable Livelihood Framework was used to investigate the impact of the Massive Food Production Programme. This approach was used in both conceptualizing the study and the selection of variables. The DFID Sustainable Livelihood Approach was selected because unlike the CARE or UNDP Sustainable Livelihood models, it was designed for such purposes. Data collection was accomplished through observation, interviewing, and focus group discussions. The researcher also made use of project annual reports on change of livelihoods, baseline survey reports, project log frame, internal reports, work plans, budgets and mid-term evaluation reports as sources of secondary data. v The research findings were analysed using several analytical procedures, including the conventional descriptive statistics, principal components analysis, and linear regression analysis. The use of the different types of analysis was driven by the research questions under investigation and the theories on which they are based, and by the available data. The study revealed that to some extent the Massive Food Production Programme has managed to improve the asset base of the farmers. However, its impact on ensuring food security is still debatable. Findings of the study revealed that most of the participants and the non-participants communities experienced food shortages in the last season 2007/8 for at most three months. The study revealed that the highest agricultural income is from livestock sales. The varying locations showed the potential of livestock production. It is recommended that development agencies consider livestock production as an agricultural strategy with immense potential for enhancing sustaining rural livelihoods
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dirwayi, Tafadzwa P
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11159 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/353 , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The Government of the Eastern Cape Province introduced the Massive Food Production programme, which is a cornerstone within the agrarian reform initiative of the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP). The programme has been going on for more than seven years, however little has been documented on its impact. The main objective of the study was to investigate the impact of the Massive Food Production Programme on the livelihoods in Nkonkobe Municipality. This study did not only investigate its impact on the participants but also assessed its impact on the recipient communities. Accordingly, the specific objectives of the study were to investigate the impact of the Massive Food Programme on the asset base of participants, the general livelihood activities, and the livelihood outcomes. Among other livelihood activities, the study made an in-depth investigation on the impact of the Massive Food Production Programme on maize crop production. This is because the Massive Food Production was aimed at maize crop production. Previous studies investigated on the indicators of success that can be used to measure the impact of this programme. After the wide-ranging evaluation of views, arguments and research findings, a model to measure impact of the programme was designed. The asset base improvement was used as the proxy of impact. Nine factors were selected from the principal component analysis of the many factors that were taken to affect participation. Three other dummy variables to proximate location, participation and group turnover were added to the regression model that was developed to measure impact. The DFID Sustainable Livelihood Framework was used to investigate the impact of the Massive Food Production Programme. This approach was used in both conceptualizing the study and the selection of variables. The DFID Sustainable Livelihood Approach was selected because unlike the CARE or UNDP Sustainable Livelihood models, it was designed for such purposes. Data collection was accomplished through observation, interviewing, and focus group discussions. The researcher also made use of project annual reports on change of livelihoods, baseline survey reports, project log frame, internal reports, work plans, budgets and mid-term evaluation reports as sources of secondary data. v The research findings were analysed using several analytical procedures, including the conventional descriptive statistics, principal components analysis, and linear regression analysis. The use of the different types of analysis was driven by the research questions under investigation and the theories on which they are based, and by the available data. The study revealed that to some extent the Massive Food Production Programme has managed to improve the asset base of the farmers. However, its impact on ensuring food security is still debatable. Findings of the study revealed that most of the participants and the non-participants communities experienced food shortages in the last season 2007/8 for at most three months. The study revealed that the highest agricultural income is from livestock sales. The varying locations showed the potential of livestock production. It is recommended that development agencies consider livestock production as an agricultural strategy with immense potential for enhancing sustaining rural livelihoods
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Impact of in-field rainwater harvesting technology on household food security: a case of Guquka and Khayalethu villages in Central Eastern Cape Province
- Hlanganise, Yoliswa Happiness
- Authors: Hlanganise, Yoliswa Happiness
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Water consumption -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11179 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/352 , Water consumption -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The aim of this investigation was to assess the impact of the In-Field Rainwater Harvesting technology on household food security in the study area. The study was conducted in Nkonkobe Local Municipality of the Amathole District Municipality in central Eastern Cape Province. The areas under investigation are Guquka and Khayaletu villages of the Thyume Valley, which is located about 30 kilometres north of Alice. The method used to assess the impact of the IRWH on household food security was a pair wise comparison method. During September 2009, there were 60 (34 in Guquka and 26 in Khayaletu) households who adopted the technology in home gardens. In order to get a clear picture of the impact of the technology on food security, a decision was taken to assess both the project members and non-project members, hence the pairwise comparison method. The non-project members (also 60 households) were selected randomly from those who were interviewed during the situation analysis in 2004. Five indicators were used to assess household food security. These were household income, expenditure on food, diet diversity, energy-protein intakes, and micro-nutrient intakes (Vitamin A, C and Iron). The income and expenditure data were collected from the 120 households. However, the detailed food data were collected from selected cases from both groups at different times (seasons) of the year. A case study approach was employed in data collection. A total of 12 cases (six households per village) were selected for this investigation. These were selected mainly according to the degree of poverty. The total of six households from each village comprised three project members and three non-members i.e. one from each poverty class (non- poor, poor and ultra-poor) in both categories. The data on the kinds of food products consumed by households was gathered using the food account method (FAM). The food consumed was then analysed for nutrient adequacy. The main findings of this investigation show the IRWH technology to have a positive impact on food security and nutrition of the project members. The technology made significant contributions to the amount of energy and vitamins A and C consumed by households especially during wet seasons. Substantial contributions of garden produce were noted among the project members. However, these contributions were not enough to ensure household food security. The results indicate that there are nutritional problems in the study area. Firstly, there is protein- v energy malnutrition mainly affecting the poor and the ultra-poor households. Secondly, there is hidden hunger affecting all poverty categories, even the non-poor households. This is mainly demonstrated by poor diet quality i.e. diet that lacks essential nutrients identified
- Full Text:
- Authors: Hlanganise, Yoliswa Happiness
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Water consumption -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11179 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/352 , Water consumption -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The aim of this investigation was to assess the impact of the In-Field Rainwater Harvesting technology on household food security in the study area. The study was conducted in Nkonkobe Local Municipality of the Amathole District Municipality in central Eastern Cape Province. The areas under investigation are Guquka and Khayaletu villages of the Thyume Valley, which is located about 30 kilometres north of Alice. The method used to assess the impact of the IRWH on household food security was a pair wise comparison method. During September 2009, there were 60 (34 in Guquka and 26 in Khayaletu) households who adopted the technology in home gardens. In order to get a clear picture of the impact of the technology on food security, a decision was taken to assess both the project members and non-project members, hence the pairwise comparison method. The non-project members (also 60 households) were selected randomly from those who were interviewed during the situation analysis in 2004. Five indicators were used to assess household food security. These were household income, expenditure on food, diet diversity, energy-protein intakes, and micro-nutrient intakes (Vitamin A, C and Iron). The income and expenditure data were collected from the 120 households. However, the detailed food data were collected from selected cases from both groups at different times (seasons) of the year. A case study approach was employed in data collection. A total of 12 cases (six households per village) were selected for this investigation. These were selected mainly according to the degree of poverty. The total of six households from each village comprised three project members and three non-members i.e. one from each poverty class (non- poor, poor and ultra-poor) in both categories. The data on the kinds of food products consumed by households was gathered using the food account method (FAM). The food consumed was then analysed for nutrient adequacy. The main findings of this investigation show the IRWH technology to have a positive impact on food security and nutrition of the project members. The technology made significant contributions to the amount of energy and vitamins A and C consumed by households especially during wet seasons. Substantial contributions of garden produce were noted among the project members. However, these contributions were not enough to ensure household food security. The results indicate that there are nutritional problems in the study area. Firstly, there is protein- v energy malnutrition mainly affecting the poor and the ultra-poor households. Secondly, there is hidden hunger affecting all poverty categories, even the non-poor households. This is mainly demonstrated by poor diet quality i.e. diet that lacks essential nutrients identified
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