Research Articles (Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/1745

This collection contains some of the full text peer-reviewed/ refereed articles published by researchers from the Department of Agricultural Economics Extension and Rural Development

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The relationship between social grant dependence and on-farm entrepreneurial behaviour : evidence from smallholder farmers in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Zaca, Fortunate Nosisa; Wale, Edilegnaw; Chipfupa, Unity (Elsevier, 2025-10)
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between social grant dependence and the on-farm entrepreneurial behaviour of smallholder farmers. A sample of 175 farmers was obtained in and around two irrigation schemes, namely, Tugela Ferry and Bululwane, in the KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. Principal component analysis and a two-limit Tobit regression model were employed to analyze the data. The study found a positive relationship between social grant dependence and on-farm entrepreneurial behaviour. This relationship implies that the prevailing low levels of entrepreneurial activity among smallholder farmers are not driven by their dependence on social grants. Instead, they result from a lack of entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, limited access to opportunities (e.g., training and markets), inadequate access to productive resources such as irrigation water, and institutional barriers (e.g., restricted access to formal credit). For the social grants programme to remain effective, the policy should ensure that social grants benefit (directly or indirectly) the intended beneficiaries and their households. Based on the empirical evidence, this study recommends integrating the existing social grants selection criteria and means tests into agricultural input subsidy programmes. This can ensure that the farming inputs effectively reach the intended beneficiaries, thereby enhancing the programmes’ positive impact on rural on-farm entrepreneurship. This study also recommends the implementation and promotion of strategies that enhance the endowment of non-cognitive skills to improve on-farm entrepreneurial behaviour among smallholder farmers. Moreover, extension officers' active involvement in and outside small-scale irrigation schemes can positively contribute to rural on-farm entrepreneurship.
The impact of mobile-based digital technology adoption on livelihood diversification : evidence from Ethiopia
Bule, Degineh Lagiso; Ntuli, Herbert; Gandidzanwa, Colleta (Routledge, 2026)
The integration of mobile phones and associated services into the diversification of livelihoods has the potential for rural transformation in developing nations. However, mobile-based technology adoption for livelihood activities in the Hadiya Zone, Ethiopia, remains inadequate. This study aims to investigate the impact of mobile-based technology adoption on livelihood diversification in the study area. The results of the instrumental variable Tobit show that mobile-based digital technology adoption positively and significantly influences livelihood diversification. This is evident particularly among the educated, men, remittance recipients, active labourers, landowners, urban residents, and traders. This underscores that the adoption of mobile-based technologies for livelihood activities is uneven, particularly among marginalised populations. Therefore, government, telecom companies, and development agencies should prioritise expanding network coverage, implement inclusive digital policies, and foster skills development. Additionally, promoting mobile money services and addressing affordability barriers are crucial to encouraging the adoption of mobile-based digital services for livelihood activities.
The effects of spatial framing and attribute range on the measurement of nonuse values of biodiversity improvements
Uggeldahl, Kennet Christian; Lundhede, Thomas Hedemark; Jacobsen, Jette Bredahl; Olsen, Soren Boye (Elsevier, 2026-02)
Assessing the value of changes in environmental conditions using stated preference valuation studies requires accurate quantification and communication of outcomes that affect human welfare. Using a stated choice experiment to estimate primarily nonuse value of changes in biodiversity per se, i.e., as an inherent characteristic of an ecosystem, we employ a composite metric known as the Biodiversity Intactness Index to capture and communicate the multifaceted nature of biodiversity. However, using complex ecological indices to value abstract concepts might make respondents more susceptible to effects related to the framing of the choice context, thereby raising concerns about validity. Employing a split sample design, we find that value estimates depend on the spatial context in which biodiversity improvements are presented: the larger the spatial scale, the smaller the value. Varying the range of the biodiversity improvement attribute in additional split samples, we find that in two out of the three tested spatial framings, the results are insensitive to the presented attribute range. Respondents thus appear to react to the absolute, rather than the relative, size of the improvements presented. The results from these two spatial framings also exhibit sensitivity to scope, supported by both internal and external scope tests. These findings might alleviate some of the validity concerns associated with employing abstract ecological indices in stated preference valuation studies.
The role of underutilized indigenous and traditional food crops in enhancing rural livelihoods and food security in South Africa
Qwabe, Qinisani Nhlakanipho; Munialo, Sussy; Swanepoel, Frans (Frontiers Media, 2025-07-09)
South Africa’s agricultural sector faces a deep economic divide, with small-scale and subsistence black-owned farms struggling while white-owned commercial farms are well-resourced. Despite this polarization, rural farming communities have shown remarkable resilience, which can be leveraged to address socioeconomic disparities. However, in this context, there is limited information on the role of indigenous and traditional foods, particularly underutilized indigenous and traditional food crops (UITFCs). Despite their full significance to rural livelihoods, the agricultural policy has yet to incorporate UITFCs. This paper addresses this gap by analyzing themes related to UITFCs, gender, the environment, and rural livelihoods using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews. The findings confirm that UITFCs play a vital role in rural farming communities, offering readily available and accessible food sources that align with the FAO’s food policy on food security. The cultivation and use of UITFCs are crucial in addressing food security at the household level while preserving dignity. UITFCs are a critical livelihood strategy for many rural people, helping them improve their socioeconomic status. Therefore, there is a need for these crops to be overtly integrated into South Africa’s national agricultural policy.
The missing puzzle of indigenous crops in Tanzania’s agricultural trade
John, Innocentia; Gandidzanwa, Colleta (Frontiers Media, 2025-07-08)
Existing trade policies in Tanzania can potentially boost or undermine Indigenous crop representation in both domestic and international trade. The trade potential is heavily reliant on the effectiveness of existing trade policies. This paper examines the existing trade policies related to indigenous crops in Tanzania, the challenges faced, and potential strategies to enhance their market integration and trade potential. It uses a mixed methods approach consisting of qualitative and quantitative trend analysis. A policy review process is used to assess the existing policies and their effectiveness in enhancing the trade potential of indigenous crops. The results suggest that existing policies do not sufficiently encompass indigenous crops and that the trade potential of indigenous crops still needs to be realized, with only three crops out of 28 (cassava, sorghum, cowpea) crops available in Tanzania having trade recognition in the international markets. Most indigenous crops remain in domestic markets, with very few reaching urban markets, while most remain in rural markets. Moreover, most of the policies and regulations available in Tanzania have yet to recognize these crops within the policies. This paper contributes to the development of policies that support the inclusion of indigenous crops in trade. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive review of existing government policies to unlock the trade potential of indigenous crops, recognizing their critical role in Tanzania’s agricultural heritage and food security. Highlights
Youth aspirations and entrepreneurial motivation in agriculture : insights from smallholder farmers in OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape
Mdoda, Lelethu; Loki, Olwethu; Zantsi, Yongama; Mvelase, Lungani; Nontu, Yanga; Madende, Primrose (Frontiers Media, 2026-01)
Agriculture holds untapped potential for youth empowerment and rural development in South Africa, particularly in regions such as the Eastern Cape, where unemployment and poverty are widespread. While often perceived as an unattractive career, a growing number of youth are redefining agriculture as a viable entrepreneurial path. This study explores the motivational drivers, enabling conditions, and challenges shaping youth participation in smallholder agriculture within the OR Tambo District Municipality. Using a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 70 purposively selected youth farmers (aged 18–35) across three municipalities. Thematic analysis revealed that youth engagement is driven by both intrinsic motivations such as passion for farming, cultural identity, and self-reliance and extrinsic factors, including land inheritance, familial support, and selective access to institutional programs. Nonetheless, substantial structural challenges such as limited formal land tenure, financing constraints, and weak institutional support persist. Despite these constraints, youth displayed notable innovation and resilience, leveraging digital tools, value-added processing, and collective marketing to sustain their enterprises. Youth aspirations for scaling up, Agri-processing, and digital entrepreneurship reflect a strong commitment to transforming rural agriculture. The study concludes that aligning agricultural support systems with youth motivations, lived realities, and structural barriers is critical to fostering inclusive and sustainable agripreneurship. Based on the study, it is recommended that policymakers need flexible financing models tailored for youth, gender-sensitive land tenure reforms, and investment in decentralised, youth-focused extension and market access programs. Strengthening rural infrastructure and digital connectivity and embedding youth voices in policy design processes will be crucial for fostering inclusive and sustainable agripreneurship.
A place-based assessment of biodiversity intactness in sub-Saharan Africa
Clements, Hayley S.; Biggs, Reinette; De Vos, Alta; Do Linh San, Emmanuel; Hempson, Gareth P.; Linden, Birthe; Maritz, Bryan; Monadjem, Ara; Reynolds, Chevonne; Siebert, Frances; Stevens, Nicola; Child, Matthew; Di Minin, Enrico; Esler, Karen J.; Hamann, Maike; Loft, Ty; Reyers, Belinda; Selomane, Odirilwe; Singh, Geethen; Skowno, Andrew L. (Nature Research, 2026-01-01)
Maintaining biodiversity is central to the sustainable development agenda. However, a lack of context-specific biodiversity information at policy-relevant scales has posed major limitations to decision-makers. To address this challenge, we undertook a comprehensive assessment of the biodiversity intactness of sub-Saharan Africa using place-based knowledge of 200 African biodiversity experts. We estimate that the region has on average lost 24% of its pre-colonial and pre-industrial faunal and floral population abundances, ranging from losses of <20% for disturbance-adapted herbaceous plants to 80% for some large mammals. Rwanda and Nigeria are the least intact (<55%), whereas Namibia and Botswana are the most intact (>85%). Notably, most remaining organisms occur in unprotected, relatively untransformed rangelands and natural forests. Losses in biodiversity intactness in the worst-affected biomes are driven by land transformation into cropland in grasslands and fynbos (Mediterranean-type ecosystems), by non-agricultural degradation in forests and by a combination of the two drivers in savannas. This assessment provides decision-makers with multifaceted, contextually appropriate and policy-relevant information on the state of biodiversity in an understudied region of the world. Our approach could be used in other regions, including better-studied localities, to integrate contextual, place-based knowledge into multiscale assessments of biodiversity status and impacts.
With water we will wash away the past - the elusive promise of redressing water inequalities in post-apartheid South Africa
Bourblanc, Magalie (Water Alternatives Association, 2026)
Water issues in South Africa have been a subject of fascination for numerous scholars around the world. Its ground-breaking National Water Act 36 of 1998 (NWA), promulgated during the democratic political transition, was meant to introduce a complete overhaul of the water sector and ensure access to water for all. In a society haunted by a long legacy of racial discrimination and exploitation, water was deemed to bring about a process of reconciliation. The NWA quickly became one of the cardinal policy reforms of the newly elected African National Congress (ANC). Twenty-five years after its adoption, however, the results are disappointing. While access to drinking water for previously discriminated-against populations was dramatically improved (especially in urban areas), the same cannot be said of access to water for productive use. Indeed, regarding the water allocation reform in rural South Africa, 'water apartheid' is still alive and well. In their accounts of the failure of the reform, scholars often blame politicians and political elites for their supposed lack of willingness to follow up on the intentions of the progressive Act. In the tradition of public policy analysis, I concentrate on the policy side rather than on the politics to explain the failed promise of the water allocation reform. Reviewing the law implementation process, I analyse how policy objectives have been filtered through state departments’ organisational culture and professional routines and operationalised on the ground through technical policy instruments. Ultimately, I shed light on how, despite new political principles and dispensations that claim the contrary, it has been possible to reproduce racial inequality and to further entrench inequalities inherited from the past. I show that this has been done by concealing water grabs from political attention through resorting to discreet policy instruments and practices that obscure the critical question of water sharing.
Welcome home! Introducing SocSES : a society for inclusive and impactful social-ecological research
De Vos , Alta; Quinlan, Allyson; Biggs, Reinette; Bennett, Elena M.; Martín-López, Berta; Norström, Albert V.; Peterson, Garry D.; Schoon, Michael; Allen, Craig R.; Andersson, Erik; Baird, Julia; Balvanera, Patricia; Berbés-Blázquez, Marta; Berkes, Fikret; Calderon-Contreras, Rafael; Carpenter, Stephen R.; Castro, Antonio J.; Cumming , Graeme S.; Falardeau, Marianne; Fick , W. Liebrecht; Folke, Carl; Galang, Elson Ian Nyl E.; Gelcich, Stefan; Gordon, Line J.; Grimm, Nancy B.; Hamilton, Jacqueline; Hodbod, Jennifer; Koch , Larissa; Kosanic, Aleksandra; Lembi, Rafael; Locatelli, Bruno; Malmborg, Katja; Manyani , Amanda; Mathisonslee, Morgan; Ocampo-Melgar, Anahi; Psiuk , Kinga; Queiroz, Cibele; Riechers, Maraja; Schultz, Lisen; Selomane, Odirilwe; Sherren , Kate; Spierenburg, Marja; Trimble, Micaela; Turkelboom , Francis; Wallington, Caroline (Resilience Alliance, 2025-06)
Underpinned by systemic thinking, social-ecological systems (SES) research has emerged as a critical field for addressing the challenges of the Anthropocene, marked by a cross-scale focus, inter- and transdisciplinary approaches, and a strong emphasis on place-based work. Thanks to the efforts of many networks and institutes, the field has advanced new theoretical and methodological approaches, fostered dedicated journals, and spurred educational programs. It has also significantly influenced sustainability initiatives and policy from local to global scales, and has richly informed place-based efforts. Despite this progress, SES research faces persistent challenges, including conceptual and methodological fragmentation, difficulty in scaling localized insights to global frameworks (and vice versa), and capturing cross-scale connections and processes while retaining contextual relevance. Inclusivity also remains a critical issue, with regional, Indigenous, and local contributions often underrepresented, as there is still a reliance on short-term, inequitably distributed grant funding for much of the research in the field. This paper introduces the Society for Social-Ecological Systems (SocSES), a global platform designed to build on and connect to the rich legacy of SES networks. SocSES aims to advance and support SES–based research, practice, and action toward a just and sustainable future. We outline how SocSES will provide a home for SES institutes, networks, researchers, and practitioners working at the science-practice-policy interface to connect and amplify existing efforts through thematic streams, regional hubs, an institutional hub, an early-career professionals hub, and synthesis groups. The society will provide a stable infrastructure to foster interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary collaboration, enhance the generalizability and policy relevance of SES research, bolster education, research, and knowledge co-production, and support the next generation of SES professionals. By addressing the persistent challenges facing the field and fostering transformative spaces and communities for innovation and action, SocSES aspires to support and leverage SES knowledge as a cornerstone of global sustainability science. In line with the society’s commitment to linguistic diversity and equitable access, this abstract has been translated into 12 languages by authors of this paper and additional contributors. These translations are available in Appendix 2 and at https://socses.org/about/paper.
Cassava production in South Africa : understanding smallholder farmers’ knowledge, attitude, and practice towards cassava production
Light, Ngobeni; Nakedi, Makhura Moraka; Petronella, Chaminuka; Manana, Mamabolo; Kenneth, Nhundu (Adonis and Abbey Publishers, 2025-12)
Cassava is widely recognised for its resilience to climate change and its ability to thrive under drought conditions. However, despite these advantages, cassava remains unpopular in the South African food market. This study examines the socio-economic factors influencing farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to cassava production and their implications. Data were collected from 117 farmers across three provinces in South Africa and analysed using a multinomial logistic regression model and the KAP framework. The results indicate significant knowledge gaps, with only 12% of respondents demonstrating adequate knowledge of cassava cultivation. Moreover, negative attitudes toward cassava production were more prevalent than positive ones, and most farmers were not adhering to recommended cultivation practices. Socio-demographic factors such as organisational membership, age, gender, marital status, education level, and farming experience were found to have mixed effects on cassava production. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions such as farmer training programmes, awareness campaigns on the benefits of cassava, educational workshops and seminars, and the provision of incentives, particularly for youth and female farmers.
Environmental edutainment games and pro-environmental behavior of primary school students : evidence from a field experiment
Dubois, Emmanuel; Farolfi, Stefano; Hafkamp-Ibanez, Lisette; Roussel, S´ebastien (Elsevier, 2025-12)
This study explores the effectiveness of behavioral interventions, specifically edutainment rooted in environmental education, in fostering pro-environmental behavior (PEB) among primary school students. Through a lab-in-the-field experiment, the research focuses on the impact of an environmental edutainment game on children's monetary donations to environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGOs) as PEB. Findings suggest that having played an environmental edutainment game does not significantly affect the amount donated, though it appears to influence the likelihood of making a donation, particularly among male and students from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Besides, female participants and students with a higher socio-economic and cultural profile exhibit higher likelihood to donate and higher effective donations, regardless of the edutainment intervention.
Quantifying and monetising externalities in Kenya's green bean value chain : implications for stakeholder and policy actions
Odhiambo, Valiant Otieno; Hendriks, Sheryl L.; Selomane, Odirilwe (Elsevier, 2026-03)
Growing international demand for fresh green beans is driving producers in Kenya to expand and intensify crop production for export, creating negative environmental, health and social externalities (hidden costs). However, empirical evidence on the magnitude of these externalities remains limited. Estimating these externalities to reveal their magnitude could encourage stakeholder and policy actions that ensure a more environmentally sustainable, health-protective and socially equitable value chain. This study quantified and monetised negative environmental, health and social externalities in Kenya's green bean value chain. True cost accounting approaches, including life cycle assessment, disability-adjusted life years, the True Price methodology and the value of statistical life years, were used to analyse data from secondary sources. The total hidden costs were estimated at 124.03 million USD (range 115.93–132.20), at least twice the 53.92 million USD market value of green beans and almost three times the export value (42.15 million USD). Environmental externalities accounted for 86.87 million USD (range 79.16–94.65), driven mainly by scarce blue water use and greenhouse gas emissions. Health externalities accounted for 0.97 million USD (range 0.58–1.36), primarily from pesticide exposure. Social externalities (36.20 million USD) reflected a large living income gap among smallholder farming households and the presence of child labour. In conclusion, Kenya's green bean value chain creates substantial negative environmental, health and social externalities. There is a need for stakeholder and policy actions to internalise externalities in the value chain. The findings can guide stakeholders and policymakers in developing and implementing strategies to reduce externalities. HIGHLIGHTS • Kenya's export-oriented green bean value chain generates negative externalities. • First study to monetise environmental, health and social externalities in the green bean value chain. • Hidden costs totalled 124.03 million USD (range 115.93–132.20), twice the market value of green beans. • Costs included 86.87 (environmental), 0.97 (health) and 36.20 (social) million USD. • Recommended stakeholder and policy actions to internalise externalities.
Evaluating non-timber forest product dependence of peri-urban households in a payment for ecosystem service scheme in Durban, South Africa
Munonde, Karabo Donald; Zegeye, Edilegnaw Wale (Elsevier, 2026-01)
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are important for livelihoods. NTFP dependence can lead to deforestation and exacerbate land degradation. Therefore, Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes, such as the Buffelsdraai Landfill Site Community Reforestation project, initiated as part of landfil restoration and climate change mitigation, become important tools for encouraging communities to adopt land-use practices that improve forest ecosystem services while safeguarding their livelihoods. Most studies have focused on NTFP dependence in a rural context, while few have examined the peri‑urban setting in South Africa. Even fewer studies have captured NTFP dependence through actual household subsistence behaviour with NTFPs, rather than using income data, particularly how psychological and social capital constructs and worldviews shape NTFP dependence. Hence, this study investigates how socio-economic, cultural worldviews, and psychological and social capital affect NTFP dependence of peri‑urban households in Durban, South Africa. Regression estimates indicate that NTFP dependence increases with the presence of more adults, a better agricultural endowment, access to electricity, and strong social networks. Meanwhile, well-endowed, fatalistic, and egalitarian households are less dependent on NTFPs. Larger households need to be supported in diversifying their livelihoods by starting home food gardens, cultivating economically viable NTFP crop species that can be linked to markets. It is recommended that technical skills training be offered to reduce livelihood dependence on NTFPs. Future studies can assess NTFP dependence by comparing rural and peri‑urban areas to understand how rapid urbanisation shapes it. HIGHLIGHTS • NTFP dependence rises with household size, agricultural endowment, electricity access, and social capital. • Well-endowed, fatalistic, and egalitarian households depend less on NTFPs. • Larger households need to be supported in diversifying their livelihoods by starting home food gardens. • Market-relevant technical skills training should form part of PES programmes to reduce NTFP dependence. • Future research should compare rural and peri‑urban contexts to assess the impact of urbanisation on NTFP use.
First report of a Sporidesmin toxicity (facial eczema) outbreak in a South African dairy herd
Davis, Anthony John; Jordaan, Daniel Du Plessis Scheepers; Myburgh, Jan G. (Medpharm Publications, 2025-03)
Sporidesmin, a toxin released by a saprophytic fungus, Pseudopithomyces chartarum, causes hepatogenous photosensitivity in sheep and cattle, commonly known as Facial Eczema. A recent outbreak in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa caused significant direct and indirect economic losses to a farmer in the area and highlighted the potential negative consequences of this mycotoxicosis to the dairy industry in this province. The milking herd consisted of 400 cross-bred Jersey/Friesian/Montbilliard cattle. The farmer identified 56 cows showing teat sensitivity/irritability during milking, hypersensitive skin, excessive licking and/or obvious skin lesions on non-pigmented skin areas. Three were culled due to the severity of their skin lesions. Grazing consisted of mixed kikuyu/perennial rye grass pasture under pivot irrigation, alternated with dryland kikuyu/Italian rye and sorghum. Typical clinical signs of severe secondary photosensitivity (skin inflammation and hypersensitivity to touch), very high serum concentrations of Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT 2143-5177 IU/L) and detection of large numbers of spores on grazed planted pastures supported the clinical diagnosis. Supplementation of zinc oxide (ZnO) powder at 12g per 500 kg cow dosed individually over the concentrates fed in the dairy, effectively reduced the incidence of new cases within two to three weeks. Weight loss, a decrease in milk volume and solids, and increased somatic cell counts were observed during this outbreak. One of these parameters, milk volume loss, was quantified by comparing the financial records of the four years preceding the outbreak to the production figures during the outbreak. The farmer lost approximately R1.5 million in milk volume during this outbreak (November 2020 - April 2021). Long term consequences were also apparent: the culling rate within the clinically affected group of 53 cows was more than 50% higher than the rest of the herd over the following two years. This case study highlights the urgent need to investigate the prevalence and potential economic impact of Sporidesmin Toxicity on the South African pasture-based dairy industry.
Transforming African food systems : perspectives from the Food Systems Network for Africa (FSNet-Africa)
Dorvlo, Selorm Yaotse; Mkandawire, Elizabeth; Mentz-Coetzee, Melody; Dougill, Andrew; Swanepoel, Frans; Emmambux, Mohammad Naushad; Boakye, Abena; Anim-Jnr, Antoinette Simpah; Lungu, Nobuhle Sharon; Tchuwa, Frank; Kwapong, Nana Afraana; Isingizwe, Frederic; Jokonya, Osden; Maina, Joyce Gichuku; Du Toit, Andrea; John, Innocensia; Mwanri, Akwilina Wendelin; Mzumara, Tiwonge I.; Holt, Diane; Jordaan, Daniel Du Plessis Scheepers; Schonfeldt, H.C. (Hettie Carina); Yusuf, Abdullahi Ahmed; Sait, Steven; Greathead, Henry; Vilakazi, Nokuthula; Jew, Eleanor; Nkukwana, Thobela T.; Papargyropoulou, Effie; Alphonce, Roselyne; Quinn, Claire Helen (Elsevier, 2025-10)
African food systems face significant challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and unsustainable practices. To ensure access to safe and nutritious food while addressing socio-economic and environmental issues, fundamental changes are necessary. A collaborative and inclusive research agenda that engages diverse stakeholders through case-study research, aligning with continent-wide frameworks such as Agenda 2063, the CAADP, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is vital. There are few cross-case analyses that bring together empirical case study research to evaluate and provide holistic appraisals of African food systems. This perspectives paper aims to provide such a synthesis from the empirical case studies generated under the Food Systems Research Network for Africa (FSNet-Africa) project. 19 case study projects in six African countries, were conducted by 83 researchers. Five key focus areas were identified: food system governance, indigenous crops and African foods, innovations for sustainable production among small-scale farmers, consumer preferences, and food loss and waste. The findings emphasise an urgent need for collaboration to address food security and nutrition challenges in Africa. Major priorities for transforming African food systems include inclusive engagement and the integration of indigenous knowledge to improve local food choices and resilience, and reducing food loss through capacity-building efforts and changing perceptions of waste. Future research should focus on governance, indigenous crops, and innovations in sustainable production to drive a transformative shift in African food systems. These priority areas will be critical for the next global and regional development agenda, reflecting the needs and aspirations of underrepresented communities across Africa.
The propensity of rural youth to take rain-fed smallholder farming as their livelihood strategy in KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) : a multinomial logit analysis
Rambuda, Humbulani Portia; Wale, Edilegnaw; Chipfupa, Unity (Wiley, 2025-12)
With most unemployed youth residing in rural areas of South Africa, incentivising youth participation in smallholder farming can help address the increasing youth unemployment crisis. The study integrated the theory of planned behavior and the sustainable livelihood framework to investigate the factors influencing rural youth participation in smallholder rain‐fed farming activities. The data were collected from 224 rural youth in Dannhauser and Nquthu local municipalities, uMzinyathi District, KwaZulu‐Natal Province. Principal components analysis was employed to compute the different dimensions of positive psychological capital. The dimensions are then used as independent variables in the Multinomial Logit model. The findings revealed that endowment with positive psychological capital, dependency ratio, farming experience, engagement of other household member (s) in farming, access to agricultural training, access to land, and agricultural cooperative membership positively affect the propensity of rural youth to take rainfed smallholder farming as their livelihood strategy. The youth currently farming are doing so out of necessity, not out of interest. The circumstances force them to farm. In the long‐term, enhancing the profitability of small‐scale agriculture is the best mechanism to attract the youth.
Distribution of forest-based innovations across Europe
Lovrić, Marko; Torralba, Mario; Orsi, Francesco; Pettenella, Davide Matteo; Castro Martínez, Antonio J.; Geneletti, Davide; Plieninger, Tobias; Primmer, Eeva; Hernández-Morcillo, Mónica; Thorsen, Bo Jellesmark; Lundhede, Thomas Hedemark; Lasse, Loft; Wunder, Sven; Winkel, Georg (Elsevier, 2026-03)
Vast majority of forestry research on innovations is based on case studies, which makes it difficult to ascertain their distribution across Europe. The relation between innovating activity and the forest within which it takes place is also an under-explored research area. In this study, we address these problems by combining survey data, spatially explicit datasets and machine learning to devise geographical probability distribution of innovation development across Europe. We differentiate between innovations focused on provision of wood and those which focus on biodiversity protection, carbon storage and forest recreation. We also show that most of the variability in the data depicting innovation development can be explained by place-based variables, such as the amount of tree biomass in the forest, tree species composition, nature protection status, terrain ruggedness and road density. Results suggest the need to further explore the role of ‘place-based’ contextual variables in innovation development and highlight various issues that different policies might face when aiming to modify forest management practices in Europe.
Smallholder farmers’ knowledge, perception and management of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Zea mays at irrigation schemes in Limpopo province, South Africa
Nethononda, Phophi D.; Hurley, Brett Phillip; Slippers, Bernard; Makhura, Moraka Nakedi (Elsevier, 2026-03)
The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) was first detected in Limpopo province, South Africa, during the 2016/2017 cropping season and continues to cause significant damage to maize production in the region. Despite the significant damage caused by S. frugiperda to maize, there is a lack of documented information on smallholder farmers' responses and control practices in South Africa. This study investigated smallholder farmers' knowledge, perceptions, and management practices of S. frugiperda at the Dzindi and the Tshiombo irrigation schemes in Limpopo province, South Africa. In this study, an irrigation scheme refers to a communal water distribution system that channels water from a river to multiple plots under smallholder cultivation through furrows or canals. Data were collected through 16 focus group discussions with farmers from the two irrigation schemes. A total of 118 farmers participated in the interviews. Each was assigned a unique identifier, which allowed for the recording and analysis of individual responses where applicable. Thematic analysis was used to identify and summarize common themes from participants’ responses, while descriptive analysis using frequencies and percentages was employed to present the responses quantitively. Farmers perceived S. frugiperda as the most destructive insect pest, yet lacked knowledge of its biology, being unable to identify its eggs, pupae, or adult moths. Control was largely through insecticide use. At the Dzindi irrigation scheme, farmers adopted Bt maize but did not comply with resistance management practices. The findings underscore the urgent need for farmer education on insect biology, responsible pesticide use, and proper implementation of Bt maize. The study also highlights the importance of collective rather than individual efforts in managing S. frugiperda, as the consequences of mismanagement can affect all farmers. These findings reveal major gaps in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices among smallholder farmers in Limpopo province, South Africa. HIGHLIGHTS • First detection of Spodoptera frugiperda in Limpopo Province, South Africa, occurred during the 2016/2017 cropping season. • Smallholder farmers lack knowledge of the pest's biology, relying on insecticides for its management. • Concurrent use of insecticides and Bt maize raises concerns over the potential evolution of S. frugiperda resistance in the region.
A review of the marketing approaches promoting the sale of milk from non-cattle dairy species
Tsvakirai, Chiedza Zvirurami (Springer, 2025-08-04)
Despite its rich heritage, milk from goats, sheep, camels, buffalos, and donkeys has remained a minor contributor to global dairy consumption. Recent market trends have seen this milk becoming popular, and to further develop this market, the study sought to determine how the marketing of non-cow mammalian milk can be improved. It investigated this by performing a scoping review that collates and synthesizes the currently fragmented body of knowledge on firstly, the attributes of non-cattle animal-sourced milk and the production attributes that are used to create consumer value and, secondly, the marketing tools that are used for marketing the milk. The study found that positive perceptions about the nutraceutical benefits and production characteristics were key drivers of demand for non-cow mammalian milk. This was aided by sensory, cultural, and social attributes, on which consumers also held negative opinions. It further identified food labelling as the leading marketing tool used for market penetration, supported by processing, packaging and blending. The study identified under-exploited marketing opportunities that could be realised by addressing consumers’ negative perceptions, leveraging product strengths and taking advantage of emerging trends in consumer behaviour. By consolidating current knowledge and identifying marketing gaps, this research advances the discourse on non-cow animal-sourced dairy markets, underscoring the need for tailored, innovative marketing approaches.
Improving stakeholder collaboration for sustainable agricultural mechanisation in rice production : a case study from Asutsuare, Ghana
Dorvlo, Selorm Yaotse; Baffoe, Gideon; Jew, Eleanor K.K.; Mkandawire, Elizabeth; Dougill, Andrew J. (Springer, 2025-08-22)
Sustainable agricultural mechanisation can help to achieve sustainable agricultural production using locally appropriate technology. It involves using machinery to remove the drudgery of farming practices while ensuring the environmental, socio-cultural and economic feasibility of the machinery used. In rice production, mechanisation can improve productivity, reduce methane emissions from fields, and remove low-skilled, physically-intensive, and monotonous labour requirements. It is important to recognise the challenges arising from the complex roles of the stakeholders involved in incorporating machinery into agricultural practices. There has been limited research on how these stakeholders interact in smallholder agricultural mechanization in Africa. To determine the modalities of the interactions between stakeholders and to propose a practical collaboration structure, this study evaluates the roles of various stakeholders involved in the rice production process in Asutsuare, a rice-producing region in Ghana. Stakeholders included smallholder farmers, policymakers, machinery sales agents, manufacturers, and agricultural extension agents. Using the pairwise ranking technique, the study found that smallholder farmers were the most influential stakeholders regarding mechanising rice production. However, focus group discussions and key informant interviews revealed their feelings of neglect, stemming from a lack of support and resources from other stakeholders. The study proposes establishing a multistakeholder platform supported by transactional communication models to improve collaboration and machinery utilization among smallholder rice farmers. This approach will harness the expertise of operators, extension agents, and farmers, while incorporating resources from sales agents and policymakers. Additionally, training Agricultural Mechanisation Extension agents in machinery skills is recommended to enhance their effectiveness. These strategies can be adapted for other smallholder farming communities as well. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS • Stakeholder collaboration is crucial for sustainable agricultural development. • The smallholder farmer is an influential and important stakeholder in smallholder rice production mechanization. • Implementing a multi-stakeholder platform and transactional communication models among stakeholders is an effective strategy to improve machinery utilization for small-scale rice farmers in Ghana. • Capacity building for stakeholders is essential to maintain an engaging platform for stakeholders, enabling them to participate in and benefit from the mechanization process.

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