The perceptions of Moretele residents of small scale agriculture: The case of Ga-Moeka village in the North-West Province

Abstract

In South Africa, small-scale agriculture is hindered by various obstacles such as the lack of structural initiatives towards land reform, the dominance of agri-business, and related difficulties of penetrating and flourishing in the market. This research sought to understand perceptions of rural residents of Ga-Moeka (in the North-West province in South Africa) of small-scale agriculture for positive rural development. Small-scale agriculture in rural areas like Ga-Moeka is perceived and practiced as a leisure activity. While the economic potential of small-scale agriculture is recognised, it is not necessarily considered as a primary mechanism to drive positive rural development. Perceptions of small-scale agriculture in the area indicate there is a need to further explore the economic potential of rural areas in a non-binary manner. Additionally, a significant and unexpected finding was the need to also challenge the definition of rural areas and stray away from binary definitions of urban/rural. The findings in this research may support policy makers to assess and put strategies in place that are in alignment with the public’s interest, enhancing their participation in government initiatives and fast-tracking rural development.