A livestock production systems study amongst resource-poor livestock owners in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province
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Date
2006-09
Authors
Nthakheni, Nkhangweni David
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Free State
Abstract
Livestock farming practices amongst smallholder black farmers are invariably described
and characterised to make various conclusions and predictions. A desire emerged in me
to conduct a study and to learn and develop an understanding about livestock production
systems with the intention of formulating intervention initiatives.
The first encounter with farmers of the study area was not easy, it was during the time
when government withdrew from assisting stock farmers with dip chemicals and
encouraging them to form dip-tank committees and buy dip with their own money. As a
Government official I had to make a contribution in explaining the reasons behind the
decision. Being their neighbour, being in a similar situation and also keeping a few heads
of cattle myself, helped them to notice that they are not alone. There were however hard
liners whom I managed to convince that, when the study commenced, they assisted with
the logistics of access to the study area. Other arrangements were facilitated by the
officials of the Department of Agriculture, traditional leaders and community based
organisations who gave permission for the study to be conducted.
Another problem was the difficulty of studying whilst simultaneously being an employee
and manning various responsibilities. There were times when I felt that the pressure was
unbearable and had to cope with the stress associated with work and study fatigue.
This thesis is about the study conducted amongst smallholder livestock owners. Livestock
farming systems amongst resource-poor farmers is more complex than we imagine. I
have been confused and embarrassed at my limited understanding. Now I am proud of the
times when I wrestled with the difficulties to gather knowledge. By having the humility
to admit that I have little knowledge and being confused, I was spurred on even if it was
like groping in the darkness.
Description
Keywords
Thesis (Ph.D. (Centre for Sustainable Agriculture))--University of the Free State, 2006, Livestock farming systems -- South Africa -- Limpopo, Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Limpopo