Qutu, Bavulele2025-02-112024. (2024). The adoption of smart technologies in small-scale farming to promote local economic development in Mnquma Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa [Master’s dissertation, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg].WireDSpace.https://hdl.handle.net/10539/43844A research report submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Business Administration to the Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, Wits Business School, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024The thesis explores the adoption of smart technology by small-scale farmers within Mnquma Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa to enhance local economic development. It delves into the challenges faced by small-scale farmers in accessing and utilizing smart technology in this region, as well as the potential benefits it can bring to their farming practices and overall economic well-being.The research highlights the importance of technology adoption in improving agricultural productivity, market access, and sustainability for small-scale farmers. It discusses the various types of smart technologies available to farmers,such as smart phones, mobile apps, sensor-based systems, drones, satellites,autonomous tractors, and precision agriculture tools, and how these technologies can be tailored to suit the needs and constraints of small-scale farming operation in Mnquma Local Municipality. Furthermore, the thesis examines the role of government policies, private sector partnerships, and community initiatives in promoting the adoption of smart technology among small-scale farmers. It also discusses the potential challenges and barriers that may hinder the wide spreadadoption of these technologies, such as cost, infrastructure limitations, and digital literacy.The core argument of the thesis is that the strategic adoption of smart technology by small-scale farmers has the potential to drive local economic development,improve food security, and enhance the livelihoods of rural communities in Mnquma Local Municipality. It calls for collaborative efforts from various stakeholders to support and empower small-scale farmers in embracing and harnessing the benefits of smart technology for sustainable agricultural developmenten© 2025 University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. All rights reserved. The copyright in this work vests in the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.Smart technology4IRFarmingMnqumaIoTBig DataUCTDSDG-8: Decent work and economic growthDissertationUniversity of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg