Farming Systems, Emerging Farmers and Land Reform in the Limpopo Province of South Africa

Abstract

Limpopo Province, in the north of the Republic of South Africa, has traditionally had two agricultural sectors, commercial and subsistence, that evolved under the land and social policies of pre-democracy governments. Post-apartheid land reform has created opportunities for the previously disadvantaged population to own and farm land. These new farmers, together with subsistence farmers attempting to commercialise, now make up a middle group termed the ‘emerging farmer’ sector. However, these emerging farmers face significant barriers that include lack of secure tenure inadvertently created by government policies and inadequate delivery of government services. Other challenges result from poor knowledge about farming, lack of motivation and organisation, and previous unsustainable land management practices. Despite these barriers, new farming systems are developing which provide farmers with opportunities to share resources, and to co-operate in purchasing better quality inputs, in the development of specialised markets for livestock, and in bulking commodities and other farm produce to meet market specifications. Many of these opportunities will require outside assistance to develop new systems and build human capacity. Improving the livelihood of emerging farmers needs an integrated approach between the farmers, extension workers, research and development advisors and government policy makers. Intervention strategies must take into account the risk, resource constraints and the social and economic objectives of the individuals or groups concerned, with progress through small incremental changes. This chapter provides background on the origins of the emerging farmer sector and focuses on practical opportunities for supporting these farmers.