Emerging technologies and effective governance for agricultural sustainability in the North West Province

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of emerging technologies and effective governance models to enhance agricultural sustainability in the North West Province of South Africa. The study addresses five research questions which include exploring the types of emerging technologies adopted by farmers, the effectiveness of these technologies in increasing productivity, barriers hindering their adoption, and the governance models facilitating technology integration. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Data was collected from employees in the Department of Agriculture through interviews while questionnaires were used to collect data from farmers. A total of 25 participants were selected from the Department of Agriculture in the qualitative phase and 340 farmers in the quantitative phase. ATLAS-ti software (version 23) was used to analyse qualitative data and SPSS to analyse quantitative data. This study is an article format where four articles were structured to answer the research questions while the last chapter presented the contributions of the study. Findings obtained from the study confirm that farmers in the North West Province incorporate various emerging technologies, including herbicide-resistant weed management, precision farming techniques, remote sensing applications, automation, and enhanced grain like BT maize. These technologies play a crucial role in improving crop yields, reducing operational costs, and enhancing farm efficiency. The integration of emerging technologies in maize production has led to significant improvements in efficiency, profitability, and safety standards. Farmers affirm the effectiveness of these technologies but emphasize the importance of comprehensive education and support services for optimal utilisation. The study confirmed that key barriers to technology adoption include high initial costs, a deficit in necessary skills and knowledge, limited access to markets and information, insufficient government support, and a lack of innovation and training. Respondents indicated that overcoming these barriers is crucial for widespread adoption and sustainable agricultural development. The study identifies various governance models in the agricultural sector which include the collective model, machine model, performance control model, and network model. These models influence organisational culture and decision-making processes. Additionally, technology transfer models, such as machinery supply, advisory services, funding mechanisms, and training programmes play a pivotal role in disseminating technological innovations. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing an integrated model that synthesizes findings on emerging technologies and governance models. This model is a comprehensive guide for enhancing agricultural sustainability in the North West Province. It addresses the complex interplay of technological adoption, effectiveness, barriers, and governance structures. The study recommends targeted interventions to overcome financial barriers, improve knowledge and information access, and enhance government support. Education and ongoing support programmes should be prioritised to bridge knowledge gaps among farmers. Furthermore, the adoption of effective governance models, considering socio-economic factors, is crucial for the successful integration of emerging technologies in agriculture. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the dynamic relationship between emerging technologies, effective governance, and agricultural sustainability. The integrated model as presented in this study provides a roadmap for policymakers, agricultural practitioners, and stakeholders to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the agricultural practices in the North West province.