Defining a Smallholder Farmer in South Africa

Introduction

A smallholder farm in South Africa refers to a relatively small-scale agricultural operation typically owned and operated by individual farmers or families. These farms are characterized by their modest size, limited resources, and the primary focus on subsistence farming or small-scale commercial production. Smallholder farmers in South Africa often cultivate crops, raise livestock, or engage in a combination of both to meet their household needs and generate income within their local communities. These farms play a crucial role in contributing to local food security, rural livelihoods, and the overall agricultural sector of South Africa.