Agriculture policy : challenges, expropriation and implication for agricultural extension in South Africa.

Abstract

The existing agriculture policy approach such as land restitution, redistribution and tenure reform remain indefinite in South Africa. Therefore, there is a distinct gap in knowledge and awareness in the plan implementation process of government agricultural policies and programmes. The objective of this study was to document the experiences, challenges, and implication for agricultural extension. For the purpose of this paper, a qualitative method involving the review of government commissioned reports, working papers, key debates on agriculture policy, online sources, books, peer reviewed journals, etc. were properly reviewed. It can be argued that the main challenge of agriculture policy in South Africa is the arduous task of creating stakeholder consensus around the agriculture policy implementation. A workable policy monitoring system and coordination remained unresolved. Furthermore, modification is needed to ensure that agriculture policy reform gives rise to the advent of sustainable agriculture. Reflecting on the study, it was recommended that a harmonized policy position for agriculture must be in place. The identification of realistic and right objectives, and cautious sequencing of actions are also required.