Investigating institutions and policies shaping smallholder farming in South Africa: A case study of the Nkomazi area, Mpumalanga province

Abstract

The agricultural sector plays an important role in the economy, globally. For developing countries, particularly rural areas, smallholder farming has become an active livelihood strategy. However, poverty and household food insecurity are still prevalent among smallholder farmers. This study aimed to improve understanding of the state of smallholder farming in South Africa and the institutions and policies shaping smallholder farming in rural areas. The study took place in the Nkomazi area, of the Mpumalanga province in South Africa.