Characterization of plot holders at Mutale smallholder irrigation schemes in Limpopo province, South Africa

Abstract

The study was conducted at Rambuda, Folovhodwe and Tshipise smallholder irrigation schemes. The three Smallholder irrigation schemes are situated at Mutale Local Municipality which is part of the Vhembe District Municipality of Limpopo Province in South Africa. The purpose of the study was to determine the characteristics of the plot holders farming in smallholder irrigation schemes who use communal water source. A structured household questionnaire was used to carry out survey on a sample of (N= 170) respondents selected from plot holders using the Flood (furrow) irrigation systems i.e. Folovhodwe N=73, Rambuda N=67 and Tshipise N=30. The gathered information was analyzed and interpreted using Microsoft-excel and statistical analysis system 9.1 version (SAS 9.1) software. The program covers frequency tables, figures and representative’s characteristics or values, such as averages and percentages. The main findings showed that there are significant differences which led to poor asset base that compromised their capacity to improve their living standard, make meaningful investments and turnover. The study concludes that in all Mutale smallholder irrigation schemes even if poor asset base is compromised, irrigation income is the most important followed by social grants that consist of pensions and child-care grants. This indicates that farming does generate employment, especially to the unemployed and can serve as their source of livelihood. It is also an alternative employment to females who remain at home while their husbands are looking for employment in cities and other groups who were previously employed.