n Ondersoek na die hindernisse tot die implementering van presisieboerdery in die Oos-Vrystaat

Abstract

With challenging farming conditions currently in the agricultural sector of South Africa, coupled with rapid population growth, it appears that by 2050, Southern Africa could possibly import two thirds of its basic food supplies. Methods such as the cultivating of more agricultural land, chemical treatments and the irrigation of more agricultural land to increase production, have already been investigated and implemented. Although these methods can increase agricultural production to some extent, each of these practices has a limit to what extent it can be applied. Alternative methods of increasing agricultural production must be investigated. The technology research and products currently available in the market seem to be a possible solution to address this problem. This study shows that technology, called precision farming, proves to be the most sustainable practice to increase agricultural production. Although there is evidence that this practice can increase production, there are still a large number of farmers who do not implement the practice. This study examined the possible barriers to the implementation of precision farming in the Eastern Free State. The results indicate that the barriers changed over time from pure undeveloped technology and consumer knowledge to more service-driven barriers. As farmers in this region's support framework in terms of service delivery and product support services are not up to standard, it increases the risk of implementing this practice. This phenomenon gives rise to the fact that the implementation costs are too high given the risk of insufficient support services and assistance in the explanation of technology after the technology has been sold to the farmer. The study concludes with recommendations to address the barriers, thus increasing the implementation rate of precision farming. The recommendations are focused on practical changes that can be made to the technology and services.