Stepping up smallholder agricultural production - What role does water play?

Abstract

Water and agriculture It is generally accepted that in order for smallholder farmers to play a more meaningful role in the economy they must participate in commercial agricultural value chains. But what is the role of water in these value chains and how does this affect the farmers’ success? A study, funded by the Water Research Commission (WRC) and led by the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of the Free State (UFS), investigated. Article by Lani van Vuuren. The role of agriculture in especially the rural economy is well recognised. According to WRC Executive Manager, Water Utilisation in Agriculture, Dr Gerhard Backeberg, agriculture contributes to economic development and rural livelihoods by providing food products, but also represents a range of opportunities for earning income in production, Stepping up smallholder agricultural production – What role does water play?

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