Bibliography: Land Degradation in South Africa project

comprehensive, co-ordinated, inclusive strategy at national and regional level

to remove the barriers to agricultural and rural development which have been

highlighted in this study.

Ref ID : 127

428. Bembridge, T.J. Characteristics of progressive small-scale farmers in

Transkei. Social Dynamics 12(2):77-85, 1986.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : TRANSKEI; EASTERN CAPE; COMMUNAL AREA; SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS;

AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT; RURAL DEVELOPMENT; ECONOMIC ASPECTS

Abstract : Progressive small-scale farmers tend to be in the younger age groups,

have a relatively high level of education and knowledge of farming, adopt modern

technology, have a higher level of managerial aptitude, more progressive

attitudes towards farming, larger farm holdings and more implements. They also

enjoy a relatively high standard of living and socio-economic status,

participate in organisations and have greater contact with information sources.

Findings show variables explaining farming progressiveness and are a multi-

variant cause/effect phenomenon. Many of the important socio-psychological and

economic factors influencing farming progressiveness are easily amenable to

manipulation and can be considerably influenced by well planned agricultural and

rural development strategies.

Ref ID : 1383

429. Bembridge, T.J. Human resouces development for increased agricultural

production in less developed areas in Southern Africa.Anonymous Anonymous

Alice:University of Fort Hare. :1-21, 1986. The less developed areas of Southern

Africa have a high agricultural potential and a population of 14 million people,

approximately 60% of whom are estimated to be living in varying states of

poverty. Agricultural production levels are only a fraction of the potential.

Small-scale farmers have non-viable farms and face many physical and

institutional constraints, as well as problems of labour, managerial skills and

lack of knowledge. Ineffective extension services and qualitative and

quantitative deficiencies in agricultural training at high school, college and

university level are constraints to human development. Suggestions have been

made here for developing the human potential through institutional reforms,

improved education at all levels and improved linkages between research,

extension and farmers.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION; SOUTHERN AFRICA; POPULATION; POVERTY; LABOUR

Ref ID : 119

430. Bembridge, T.J. Agricultural extension in the less developed areas of

southern Africa. Agricultural Administration & Extension 27:245-265, 1987.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION; CISKEI; TRANSKEI; KWAZULU; COMMUNAL AREA;

EASTERN CAPE; KWAZULU NATAL; SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS

Abstract : This paper is based on data obtained from studies aimed at evaluating

the effectiveness and efficiency of extension services in the Ciskei, Transkei

and KwaZulu areas of Southern Africa. Findings show that extension services have

operated in a haphazard manner, with neither priorities specified nor plans

drawn up and implemented. There were considerable deficiencies in the quality of

staff, technical support, communication methods, administration and managememt

at all levels. There were deficiencies in levels of technical and extension

knowledge and the general morale and status of extension workers leaves much to

be desired.

A relatively low percentage, mainly progressive farmers, were contacted by

extension workers. Only a small percentage of farmers adopted recommended

technology which was not always suited to the needs of farmers. Suggestions are

made for improving the situation through development of more appropriate

technological packages, greater farmer involvement in extension and research,

improved training, management, communication, evaluation procedures and

supporting services.

Ref ID : 2346

431. Bembridge, T.J. Crop farming system constraints in Transkei: Implications

for research and extension. Developmnet Southern Africa 4(7), 1987.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : FARMING SYSTEMS; TRANSKEI; AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION; POPULATION; RURAL

DEVELOPMENT; LAND TENURE; SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS; METHODOLOGIES; AGRICULTURAL

EXTENSION

Notes : The purpose of this document is to summarise agricultural production

trends in Transkei and the various farmng system determinants and their

constraints to farming systems in Qamata, Emgcwe and Qumbu in the Transkei.

Because the rural population consisted of a high percentage of illiterate

people, field observation, measurement and recording supplemented by

interviewing, was the only feasible way of obtaining reasonably accurate

information. Sampling was carried out on a random stratified basis according to

villages and from lists of heads of households who have land rights. The sample

size varied from 10 to 20% depending on the area population. The study revealed

that the large gap between farmer yields and best potential yields is caused by

two factors. These are: 1. biological constraints in the sense of non-

application or poor application of technology, and 2. socio-economic and

institutional constraints that prevent farmers from using the recommended

technology. The study further revealed that knowledge of crops is a very

important variable that determines adoption of maize practices. This implied

the importance of research and extension in providing appropriate knowledge and

technology to the small farmers in Transkei. The study made a series or

recommendations for institutional reform; advancing current technology to

improve draught power and tillage methods; evaluating inter-cropping systems,

integrating crop and livestock production, and developing technology to improve

plant population and weed control. This article can be found in the University

of Fort Hare library. See ref. I.D. no 2339.

Ref ID : 1321

432. Bembridge, T.J. An agricultural extension model for developing areas in

Southern Africa. 1987.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION; MODELS; SOUTHERN AFRICA

Notes : This paper outlines a model which embodies relatively simple ideas, in

effect applying common sense management principles to agricultural extension.

Such a management system is capable of transorming the agriculture of a

particular country when it is organised and managed properly. Experience

elsewhere in developing countries has shown that the adaptation and operation of

such a model can made extension work effective and have a significant impact on

agriculture. This involves a concerted effort by committed politicians and

senior bureaucrats. Future efforts must focus on improving local capacity to

manage extension. It is suggested that training and using local staff to manage

extension and other institutions is critical to success. Contact with, and

development of, local farmers' organisations to participte in all phases of the

extension research system is also vital for success.

Ref ID : 1281

433. Bembridge, T.J. Agricultural development problems in three rural areas in

Ciskei. Ciskei:University of Ford Hare Press, 1987.pp. 1-196.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT; CISKEI; SOUTHERN AFRICA; AGRICULTURAL

PRODUCTION; POPULATION

Notes : Development of the rural areas of the less developed states of southern

Africa, especially in the sphere of agriculture, is a matter which should be

accorded top political priority. The general problem of the existing low levels

of agricultural production and low living standards, to be discussed in this

study, may well be the most critical development issue in southern Africa.

Ciskei and the other independent and National States are faced with an insidious

deterioration of natural resources coupled with rapdily increasing human and

livestock pressure. There is a clear need for a change in outlook with regard

to improving agriculture, which is the first step towards bringing about any

betterment of economic and social welfare. Agricultural development programmes

are often initated without adequate prior knowledge of the population, income

distribution, differences in level of agricultural production, consumption,

output and other variables. Failures in some development schemes are often

attributed to the conservatism of small-scale farmers; others are attributed to

a lack of political commitment and inefficient administration. Such diagnoses

do not, however, probe the question of whether the development strategy was ever

likely to succeed in the first place. Reliable data on such factors as those

mentioned above are singularly lacking in the case of the Ciskei. This study

aims to answer some of the questions pertaining to these factors.

Ref ID : 2345

434. Bembridge, T.J. Aspects of cattle production in Transkei. South African

Journal of Animal Science , 1987.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : TRANSKEI; POPULATION; LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION; ECONOMIC ASPECTS;

DESERTIFICATION ASSESSMENT; VELD MANAGEMENT; STOCKING RATE; PRODUCTION POTENTIAL

Notes : The purpose of the study was to briefly review cattle production in

Transkei, with special reference to a study of three tropical livestock -

producing areas. Data generated from a survey carried out in Transkei during

the 1978/79 season were used for analysis. The sample size varied from 10 to

20% depending on the population in the study districts. The study revealed that

a situation of low levels of production and deteriorating natural resources

owing to mismanagement and overstocking exists. The livestock industry in

Transkei is not realising its potential and makes a relatively small

contribution to economic development. This article can be found in the UFH,

Faculty of Agriculture, Document Centre. See ref. I.D. no: 2339.

Ref ID : 2347

435. Bembridge, T.J. Requirements for successful irrigation projects with

special reference to the Tyefu Irrigation Scheme. Ciskei Agricultural Journal ,

1987.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : IRRIGATION; CISKEI; LABOUR; DESERTIFICATION CONTROL; RURAL

DEVELOPMENT; ECONOMIC ASPECTS; SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS

Notes : The purpose of this study was two-fold: Firstly, to review a case study

of the Tyefu Irrigation Scheme in Ciskei, and secondly, based on this case study

and experience elsewhere in Africa, to discuss lessons from past experience and

requirements for successful smallholder irrigation schemes. The method used for

this study was a case study of Tyefu Irrigation Scheme. The study found that

the scheme has undoubtedly been of great benefit in an otherwise improverished

and barren environment. The problem is that individual incomes of commerical

farmers do not give as good a return on labour as is the case in the urban

sector. There is therefore a need for a more dynamic incentive system for

farmers who have proved themselves able to increase their income. Conversely,

provision needs to be made for poor performers in the wage sector. There is

also a need for further training of participants. The author, after considering

available literature and the Tyefu case study, concluded that success on

irrigation projects depends on integration between technology, management,

participants and the socio-economic setting. This article can be found at the

University of Fort Hare. See ref. I.D. no: 2339.

Ref ID : 118

436. Bembridge, T.J. An overview of the capacity of existing institutions and

structures in the less developed areas of Southern Africa to achieve rural

development. Development Southern Africa 4(4):665-687, 1987.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : RURAL DEVELOPMENT; COMMUNAL AREA; SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS; SOUTHERN

AFRICA

Abstract : A basic assumption of this paper is that the ultimate aim of rural

development is to promote the well-being of rural people. A conceptual framework

is given of the interrelatedness of various subsystems in the rural development

process, as well as of institutions which are necessary for successful rural

development.

This paper systematically highlights important industrial and related

operational factors responsible for the general failure of rural development

efforts, and also focuses of the obstacles, limitations and constaints which

have thwarted success. It is clear from the review of development institutions

and their functional components that the present institutional arrangements for

rural development in Southern Africa do not have a high probability of success

due to glaring defiencies. Changes must be brought about in the organisation and

management of bureaucracies before rural development is likely to have any major

impact.

Ref ID : 2362

437. Bembridge, T.J. The role of women in agriculture and rural development in

the Transkei. Journal of Contemporary African Studies , 1988.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : RURAL DEVELOPMENT; TRANSKEI; POPULATION; LABOUR; AGRICULTURAL

PRODUCTION; GENDER ASPECTS; AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT; LAND TENURE; LIVESTOCK

PRODUCTION

Notes : The purpose of the study was to investigate the role of women in rural

Xhosa society particularly in agriculture and in the general rural development

process. A survey was conducted covering administrative areas in representative

mixed - farming regions in Qumbu, Ngqamakhwe and St. Marks districts. From

lists of heads of households who had land rights and/or possessed livestock,

samples were taken randomly. The sample size varied from 5 to 10% depending on

population in the studies districts. A correlation matrix was computed to study

the interrelationship of 34 important variables. The study found out that rural

women in Transkei provided the bulk of farm labour - crop production (85%), case

of pigs and poultry (87%) and cattle and smaller livestock (44%). This simply

implies that rural women play a dominant role in small-scale agriculture

particularly in weeding and harvesting. A lack of understanding of the role of

women, and inadequate support services for those women left behind on the land

when men are forced into migrant labour through insufficient farm incomes

exacerbate the decline in agricultural production in Transkei. Approximately

60% of rural women are motivated to improve their quality of life through self-

help programmes. The author clearly indicated that rural development in

Transkei would fail to achieve its true potential without the full participation

of rural women. The author suggested programmes for women should be incorporated

into overall development strategies and plans and should not be introduced as

separate projects. This article can be obtained from the UFH library. See ref.

I.D. no: 2339.

Ref ID : 2364

438. Bembridge, T.J. Impact of maize extension programme in Transkei. South

African Journal of Agricultural Extension , 1988.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : TRANSKEI; POPULATION; FARMING SYSTEMS; AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION;

METHODOLOGIES; STATISTICS; AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION; CULTIVATION; SOIL

PROPERTIES; DESERTIFICATION CONTROL; SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS

Notes : The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the extension

programme after 7 years of operation, i.e. from 1980/81 to the 1986.87 season.

The original sample in 1979/80 baseline survey comprised a 20% sample (N=138) of

landholders, stratified according to size of villages. For comparative

purposes, the 1986/87 sample size of 9% (N=60) was taken at random from the

1979/80 respondent list, and stratified on the same basis. Information for both

the baseline and evaluation survey was obtained from field observations and a

structured questionnaire. A 7-year programme to improve maize production has

achieved modest success in terms of improved knowledge, adoption of maize and

management practices, as well as increased yields. There were considerable

differences in the rate of adoption of individual practices. Soil fertility,

weed control and plant population, were the most important variables in

explaining differences in yield. Deficiencies were found in the provision of

extension advice and draught power, and local farmer organisations did not

function satisfactorily. The author stressed the need to develop technology and

farming systems aimed at improving nutrition and subsistence production,

strengthening extension services, local organisations, services and support, as

well as catering for community felt needs. This article can be obtained from

the Document Centre, Agriculture, (UFH). See ref. I.D. no: 2339.

Ref ID : 2365

439. Bembridge, T.J. Aspects of cattle production in Ciskei. Ciskei Agricultural

Journal , 1988.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : CISKEI; POPULATION; LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION; METHODOLOGIES; STATISTICS;

SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS; RURAL DEVELOPMENT; VELD MANAGEMENT; STOCKING RATE;

COMMUNAL AREA

Notes : The purpose of the study was to review aspects, importance and problems

of cattle production in Ciskei. The method used was rural surveying and it

comprised of administrative areas of Burnshill, Mbem's, Khama's area, Amatola

Basin, as well as the Lujiko and Nyaniso areas. The sample size varied from 15

to 33%, depending on the population. In Ciskei's tribal society, the number of

cattle a man owns enhances his status and security in society. Cattle are

regarded as an investment. Because of a lack of other rural investment

opportunities, cattle are kept as dual or multipurpose animals. Findings from

the study show a situation of low levels of production and deteriorating natural

resources due to mismanagement and overstocking due to the communal nature of

cattle production. Available at the University of Fort Hare Library. See ref.

I.D. no: 2339.

Ref ID : 120

440. Bembridge, T.J. A proposed institutional framework for successful rural

development in less developed areas of Southern Africa. Development Southern

Africa 5(1):23-39, 1988.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : RURAL DEVELOPMENT; POLITICAL ASPECTS; POLICY; AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION;

COMMUNAL AREA

Abstract : Whatever aspects of institutional change are important for successful

rural development, political power will inevitably be a determining issue. A

strong national planning and development organisation to facilitate co-

ordination between government departments, parastatal and other organisations is

essential. Coupled with this is the need for a national policy for action, with

supporting services and adequate financial support. Suggestions have been put

forward for decentralised, co-ordinated and effective administrative

organisations at village, district and regional level, with particular emphasis

laid on village-level participation in rural development programmes.

There should be an autonomous institution for the promotion of input supplies

and marketing, consistent government financing, rural infrastructure and rural

service centres, all of which are essential for successful rural development. It

is important that the activities of the private sector be co-ordinated at

various levels as part of the national rural development effort. A politically

acceptable land tenure code with appropriate legislative and judicial support

needs to be built in to a rural development strategy.

It is essential that there be appropriate co-ordination of research and

extenstion through proper institutional mechanisms, so that it becomes an

integral part of rural development planning.

Ref ID : 1799

441. Bembridge, T.J. Grassland research and extension: present and future.

Journal of the Grasslands Society of Southern Africa 5(1):5-7, 1988.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : GRASSLAND

Notes : The author concludes that the important point is that all research,

extension activities and functions including information systems, need to be

managed. The success of the National Grazing Strategy dpends greatly upon the

challenging task facing senior research and extension workers in applying well-

known management principles and local knowledge to implement a feasible

programme to achieve the objectives as set out in the article. We are fortunate

in South Africa in havnig high-calibre people who can do this.

Ref ID : 2383

442. Bembridge, T.J. Aspects of small stock production in Ciskei. South Africa

Journal, Animal Science , 1989.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : CISKEI; POPULATION; LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION; FARMING SYSTEMS;

STATISTICS; ECONOMIC ASPECTS

Notes : The purpose of the study was to review aspects of efficiency at sheep

and goat production, as well as ownership of pigs and poultry in the study

areas. A survey was conducted in the three locations of the two districts

indicated above. A stratified sampling procedure was used and the sample size

was 15% of the population in the study areas. Actual counts, measurements, and

observations of livestock numbers and categories were made. Findings show low

levels of production and reproduction and high mortality rates in sheep and goat

production. Only 50% of farmers keep pigs, while all households keep poultry.

The author emphasized that small stock have an important potential role in the

economy of small-scale farmers. This article is obtainable from the Document

Centre, Agriculture, UFH. See ref. I.D. no 2339.

Ref ID : 1446

443. Bembridge, T.J. Woodlots, woodfuel and energy strategies for Ciskei. South

African Forestry Journal 155:42-50, 1990.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : ENERGY; CISKEI; DEFORESTATION; SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT; RURAL

DEVELOPMENT; AGROFORESTRY; FORESTRY; COMMUNAL AREA; EASTERN CAPE; RAINFALL; VELD

MANAGEMENT; METHODOLOGIES

Abstract : Ciskei is reasonably well endowed with woody vegetation and has a

good potential for woodlot establishment in areas with more than 600 mm annual

rainfall. Existing woodlots comprising 452 ha make a very minor contribution to

supplies of woodfuel and poles. Because of the "topdown" approach woodlot

management has been neglected. The majority of households experience difficulty