The reaction of Doornkop Residents towards land restitution procedures as part of development processes in North West Province : the case of Doornkop Farm in Ventersdorp

Abstract

This study was focused on the reaction of Doornkop Residents towards Restitution procedures in the North West Province with respect to Doornkop farm. The aim of the study was to investigate the reaction of Doornkop Residents towards the process of their land claim for the restitution of Doornkop farm. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to collect information for this study. A random sample of 63 members of the community was selected to participate in the study. Quantitative information was found in archival documents and interviews. Other qualitative information was collected through the administration of an open ended questionnaires and focus group interviews. The main finding of this study was that the Doornkop residents were not involved and did not understand the restitution process as a result they were impatient with the lengthy procedures. They occupied the farm under claim without authorization. Since then they have not yet received post settlement grant to develop agricultural projects on the farm. The study recommended that Doornkop community should receive settlement grant that could assist them to build houses and improve their livelihood on the farm. Land claimants should be advised to wait patiently till the end of the claim process for them to receive title deeds.