An agricultural survey of subsistence farmers in the Nkandla district of KwaZulu∗

This paper is based on data from an MSc thesis, presented by R I Cairns, Department of Grass land Science, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg

Abstract

In 1986 and 1987, an agricultural survey was conducted among 70 subsistence farmers in the Nkandla district of KwaZulu. The aims of the survey were to describe the farming system, identify constraints to agricultural production and make recommendations for future extension work in the area.

No stock was sold in 1986/87. However, hides and meat obtained from slaughter and deaths may be valued at about R150,98 per household per annum. Poultry contributed R31,86 per household per annum. Veld has been irreversibly degraded in most of the study area, causing a major constraint to cattle production. However, short‐term in creases in poultry production are feasible.

Cropping enterprises were dominated by maize, which was planted on 81% of the total field area and contributed about R413,86 per annum to household income. The most limiting constraints to maize yield were poor soil fertility and the related presence of witchweed (Striga asiatica), poor weeding (probably at the early post‐emergent stage of maize), late planting (after November) and the use of traditional seed. Steep slopes seri ously limit agronomic development. The introduction of timber and fruit trees may be feasible but other perennial crops are not viable in light of available markets.

Notes

This paper is based on data from an MSc thesis, presented by R I Cairns, Department of Grass land Science, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg

Professor and Head, Department of Crop Science, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg. (Present address: Institute of Natural Resources, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg)