A typology of strategies that support agricultural businesses in the Vhembe District Municipality

• Published in: African renaissance Vol. 2023; no. si1; p. 53
• Main Authors: Lavhelani, Phathutshedzo David, Nkondo, Livhuwani Gladys, Thakhathi, Dovhani Reckson
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Sabinet Online 01.10.2023
• Subjects: Agricultural industry; Farmers; International economic relations; Natural resources; Political activity; Political aspects; South Africa; Sub-Saharan Africa; South Africa; Sub-Saharan Africa
• ISSN: 1744-2532
• DOI: 10.31920/2516-5305/2023/sin1a3

The primary objective of the study was to explore policies and strategies that support agricultural business, in the Vhembe District Municipality. The study adopted a qualitative research design, utilising data generated from sixteen in-depth interviews carried out in 2021 with community leaders and farmers who are registered with Vhembe District Municipality. The collected data was analysed using thematic content, aided by ATLAS ti. From the findings - engagement, consultation, government support and specialised agriculture - were identified as strategies that enhance policy formulation, in the agricultural sector in Vhembe District Municipality. The findings of the study also indicated that these farmers supplied specific products which resulted in the market being supplied with diverse products. Drawing from this, this study submits that these farmers can apportion the market, reduce unnecessary competition, thereby, improve their sales and, ultimately, their revenues. Another revenue-enhancing approach is for farmers to involve significant retailers. This entails creating relationships through which small-scale farmers can supply their products to major retail establishments.