OpenUCT :: Browsing by Subject "Agriculture"

Browsing by Subject "Agriculture"

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Open Access
Blockchain technology for agriculture traceability systems in South Africa
(2024) Brummer, Ulrich; van Vuuren, Gary
This research explores the integration of blockchain technology in South Africa's agricultural sector to enhance food traceability. The study critically examines the evolving landscape of agri-food markets, transitioning from traditional to modern supply chains marked by globalisation and increased emphasis on quality and safety. The role of blockchain technology in addressing traceability challenges is assessed through an extensive literature review, featuring diverse perspectives and insights. The study investigates the application of blockchain in food traceability through an analysis of various models and frameworks presented in contemporary research studies. Notably, the research highlights the significance of traceability in ensuring food safety, quality, and sustainability, emphasising the growing consumer demand for transparent information about the origin and journey of food products. Past global food scandals have highlighted the need for robust traceability systems and highlighted the urgency of quick crisis identification and resolution. Blockchain technology emerges as a transformative solution for food traceability, offering immutability, transparency, and decentralised control. The study acknowledges the challenges associated with blockchain adoption, including issues related to data governance, interoperability, regulatory frameworks, implementation costs, and the need for stakeholder education. The research underscores the importance of sector-wide consensus and standardisation efforts to overcome these challenges and facilitate the transition from blockchain pilots to enduring implementations. The research is concluded by highlighting the implications of blockchain adoption, including enhanced transparency, improved food safety, and increased consumer confidence. It emphasises the need for collaborative efforts between government and industry stakeholders to establish supportive regulations and standardised protocols. The study identifies research gaps, including the exploration of advanced consensus mechanisms, privacy-preserving techniques, and the integration of artificial intelligence for data analytics. Continuous research and collaboration are proposed to address these gaps and drive ongoing innovation in the field. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of blockchain technology in South African agriculture, offering insights for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers to navigate the dynamic intersection of technology and food traceability.
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Conservation begins after breakfast: the relative importance of opportunity cost and identity in shaping private landholder participation in conservation
(Elsevier, 2013) Conradie, Beatrice; Treurnicht, Martina; Esler, Karen; Gaertner, Mirijam
The conservation opportunity literature increasingly emphasises opportunity cost as an important determinant of willingness to engage in conservation on private land. We investigated the explanatory power of a group of opportunity cost variables in the decision to participate in a landscape-level conservation initiative on the Agulhas Plain, Cape Floristic Region. Opportunity cost variables outperformed affiliation and demographic variables when used in one model and had almost as much explanatory power as the combined model when used on their own. In the opportunity cost model, conservation was positively related to farm size and education and negatively related to share of income from farming and size of the remnant of natural vegetation on the farm. Of these relationships, that between education and participation was the most elastic: a 1% increase in education led to an almost 2% increase in the likelihood of participating in conservation. A large group of identity variables jointly explained nothing, but a subset of age, gender and Afrikaans language status had some explanatory power when used separately. We suspected this subset of demographic variables to have done nothing but proxy patterns of opportunity cost in the farming community. When re-estimated with the untransformed remnant as a share of farm size rather than an area, similar results were obtained and the negative sign on the remnant was confirmed. We concluded that understanding what opportunity cost conservation imposes on private landholders is not only important, but critical, for predicting which private land will come into and stay in conservation.
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Current patterns of habitat transformation and future threats to biodiversity in terrestrial ecosystems of the Cape Floristic Region, South Africa
(2003) Rouget, Mathieu; Richardson, David M; Cowling, Richard M; Lloyd, J Wendy; Lombard, Amanda T
The formulation of an effective strategic plan for biodiversity conservation in the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) requires an assessment of the current situation with regard to habitat transformation, and an explicit framework for predicting the likelihood of remaining habitat (i.e. that potentially available for conservation) being transformed. This paper presents the results of a detailed assessment of the current and future extent of three important factors that threaten biodiversity in the CFR: cultivation for intensive agriculture (including commercial forestry plantations), urbanisation, and stands of invasive (self-sown) alien trees and shrubs. The extent of habitat transformation was mapped at the scale of 1:250,000, using primarily satellite imagery. We compared models derived from a rule-based approach relying on expert knowledge and a regression-tree technique to identify other areas likely to be affected by these factors in future. Cultivation for agriculture has transformed 25.9% of the CFR and dense stands of woody alien plants and urban areas each cover 1.6%. Both models predict that at least 30% of the currently remaining natural vegetation could be transformed within 20 years. There was an overall accuracy of 73% between both models although significant differences were found for some habitat types. Spatial predictions of future agriculture threats derived from the rule-based approach were overestimated relative to the statistical approach, whereas future alien spread was underestimated. Threat assessment was used to derive conservation targets for subsequent stages of conservation planning for the CFR. The importance of integrating vulnerability knowledge into conservation planning is discussed. The choice of vulnerability analysis (future habitat degradation and/or impact on biological entities) and methods will depend on the complexity of the threatening processes and the availability of spatial data.
Open Access
Effect of malaria on productivity in a workplace: the case of a banana plantation in Zimbabwe
(2019-12-03) Lukwa, Akim T; Mawoyo, Richard; Zablon, Karen N; Siya, Aggrey; Alaba, Olufunke
Background Malaria is known to contribute to reduction in productivity through absenteeism as worker-hours are lost thus impacting company productivity and performance. This paper analysed the impact of malaria on productivity in a banana plantation through absenteeism. Methods This study was carried out at Matanuska farm in Burma Valley, Zimbabwe. Raw data on absenteeism was obtained in retrospect from the Farm Manager. Malaria infection was detected using malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test. Measures of absence from work place were determined and included; incidence of absence (number of absentees divided by the total workforce), absence frequency (number of malaria spells), frequency rate (number of spells divided by the number of absentees), estimated duration of spells (number of days lost due to malaria), severity rate (number of days lost divided by number of spells), incapacity rate (number of days lost divided by the number of absentees), number of absent days (number of spells times the severity rate), number of scheduled working days (actual working days in 5 months multiplied by total number of employees), absenteeism rate. Results A total of 143 employees were followed up over a 5-month period. Malaria positivity was 21%, 31.5%, 44.8%, 35.7% and 12.6% for January 2014 to May 2014, respectively. One spell of absence [194 (86.6%)] was common followed by 2 spells of absence [30 (13.4%)] for all employees. Duration of spells of absence due to malaria ranged from 1.5 to 4.1 working-days, with general workers being the most affected. Incidence of absence was 143/155 (93.3%), with total of spells of absence of over a 5-month period totalling 224. The frequency rate of absenteeism was 1.6 with severity rate of absence being 2.4. and incapacity rate was 3.7. Conclusion Malaria contributes significantly to worker absenteeism. Employers, therefore, ought to put measures that protect workers from malaria infections. Protecting workers can be done through malaria educative campaigns, providing mosquito nets, providing insecticide-treated work suits, providing repellents and partnering with different ministries to ensure protection of workers from mosquito bites.
Open Access
Effects of long-term organophosphate exposures on neurological symptoms, vibration sense and tremor amongst South African farm workers
(1998) London, Leslie; Nell, V; Thompson, M L; Myers, J E
OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the relationship between long-term exposure to organophosphate insecticides and neurological symptoms, vibration sense, and motor tremor after control for the effect of past poisoning and acute exposure. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 164 pesticide applicators and 83 nonspraying reference workers on deciduous fruit farms. The workers were tested on the Vibratron II, on tests of dynamic and static tremor, and for a set of neurological and "dummy" symptoms. Exposure was derived with the use of a job-exposure matrix for pesticides in agriculture. RESULTS: Compared with nonapplicators, current applicators reported significantly more dizziness, sleepiness, and headache and had a higher overall neurological symptom score. This association remained statistically significant after multiple logistic regression analyses controlling for a range of confounders and effect modifiers [odds ratio (OR) 2.25, for current applicators having high neurological score, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.15-4.39]. The average lifetime intensity of organophosphate exposure was nonsignificantly associated with both neurological (OR 1.98, 95% CI 0.49-7.94) and "dummy" symptoms (OR 2.37, 95% CI 0.54-10.35). Previous pesticide poisoning was significantly associated with the neurological scores (OR 4.08, 95% CI 1.48-11.22) but not with the "dummy" symptoms. Vibration sense outcomes were associated with age and height, but not with the organophosphate exposure measures. In the multiple linear regression modeling for tremor intensity in the dominant hand, recent organophosphate exposure in the past 10 days was a significant predictor (partial correlation coefficient = 0.04), but none of the long-term organophosphate exposure measures were significant. CONCLUSIONS: Strong evidence was found for an association between symptom outcomes and past organophosphate poisoning and between symptom outcomes and current spray activity. In contrast to symptoms, there was no association between either past poisoning or current spray activity and vibration sense or tremor outcome. Long-term organophosphate exposure did not appear to predict symptoms, vibration sense, or tremor outcome.
Open Access
Range expansion of the Red-billed Quelea, Quelea quelea, into the Western Cape, South Africa
(2006) Oschadleus, H D; Underhill, L G
The red-billed quelea, Quelea quelea, is a serious problem bird of cultivated grain throughout Africa. It has expanded its range in different parts of southern Africa. Recent sightings over the last seven years in the Western Cape indicate that this species is appearing more frequently here. If queleas do become established in the Western Cape as a breeding species, this could have a serious impact on the economy of the wheat farmers.
Open Access
The readiness of the agricultural sector to adopt the internet of things: a case of Western Cape, South Africa
(2025) Soeker, Inaam; Chigona, Wallace; Lusinga, Shallen
Background: Food scarcity arising from climate change has garnered widespread recognition as a critical global concern, necessitating serious attention. Far-reaching impacts of climate change extend across dimensions such as the environment, technology, policy, and societal progress. Among these dimensions, the implications for food production within the agricultural sector is significant. With the expanding global population, the demand for agricultural output intensifies, exerting unprecedented pressure on the industry to meet this growing need. As a result, the agricultural sector is confronted with the imperative to transition towards sustainable farming practices to enhance overall productivity. Amid this imperative, the integration of technology, particularly the Internet of Things (IoT), emerges as an indispensable solution. Extensive research demonstrates that IoT implementation in agriculture yields manifold benefits, including enhanced food production, increased productivity, and bolstered sustainability. Moreover, IoT equips farmers with tools to navigate the complex challenges posed by climate change and food scarcity, ensuring their competitiveness and profitability. However, a pivotal consideration is the readiness of the agricultural sector to implement IoT. Purpose of the Research: Despite the considerable potential gains, the readiness of the South African agricultural sector to adopt IoT remains a less-explored area. This study aims to address this gap by examining the landscape of IoT adoption readiness within the context of the South African agricultural sector. Design/Methodology/Approach: To evaluate readiness to adopt IoT, a qualitative research method was adopted in this research and an analysis was methodically employed. This multifaceted analysis approach encompassed distinct dimensions— political, environmental, social, and technological (PEST). Each dimension was assessed to ascertain its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT), in the context of IoT integration within the agricultural sector. This systematic PEST-SWOT analysis culminated in positioning the readiness of the agricultural sector in South Africa. Findings: The findings of this study unveil a notable duality in South Africa's developmental landscape. This dichotomy becomes apparent through the coexistence of both developed and developing facets. This division manifests in distinct states. On the one hand, the developed portion of the agricultural sector exhibit a tangible readiness for IoT adoption. On the other hand, the developing portion encounter barriers that necessitate comprehensive mitigation of inherent weaknesses and threats resulting in its unpreparedness for adopting IoT. This division closely mirrors the distinction between the commercial and SME sectors, embodying the readiness of the developed state and lack of readiness in the developing state, respectively. This inherent dichotomy, rooted in historical challenges, underscores the urgency for holistic resolutions. Overall, the findings suggest that the South African agricultural sector is not ready for IoT adoption. Practical Implications: The practical implication of this research underscores the vital need for tailored strategies that bridge the readiness gap between the developed and developing portion of the agricultural sector. Addressing the distinctive challenges faced by each portion, particularly considering their historical contexts, will be instrumental in fostering a cohesive and synchronised path towards embracing IoT. Originality/Contribution: The contribution of this study lies in its comprehensive examination of readiness to adopt IoT within the South African agricultural sector. By employing a multi-dimensional PEST-SWOT analysis, this research not only sheds light on the nuanced landscape of IoT adoption but also positions the readiness of the Western Cape's agricultural sector in a holistic context. This approach offers a unique lens through which to understand the intricate challenges and opportunities that IoT adoption presents in this critical sector.
Open Access
The user acceptance of an agricultural e-commerce platform for women in underserved rural areas
(2025) Mahure, Hlobisile; Chigona, Wallace; Telukdarie, Arnesh
Problem Statement: Agricultural e-commerce technologies have the potential to empower farmers in rural areas. These platforms can help agriculturalists by enhancing market access, reducing reliance on intermediaries, increasing sales, providing access to modern technologies, and ultimately leading to genuine economic independence. Despite their potential benefits, current e-commerce platforms remain underutilized by rural farmers, particularly women. The acceptance of these solutions is often hindered by a myriad of factors such as lack of relevance to users' needs, language barriers, infrastructure issues, digital illiteracy, economic barriers, and socio-cultural constraints. This highlights the need for further research to investigate user acceptance of agricultural e-commerce among women. Understanding user acceptance can help identify obstacles and develop strategies for digital inclusion, which is an area that remains understudied in rural settings. Existing literature often falls short of addressing the specific needs and challenges of female farmers in rural areas, overlooking factors such as language, design, and preferences that resonate with this demographic, thus leaving these women underserved. Purpose of the study: The primary aim of this study was to assess the user acceptance of an agriculture e-commerce platform designed to support female farmers in underserved rural areas. Research Methodology: The research utilized a convergent parallel mixed-method approach, involving both qualitative and quantitative methods. The study area chosen was Jeppes Reef, a small rural community renowned for its agricultural activities. Thirty participants were selected using snowball sampling, convenience sampling, simple random sampling, and purposive sampling. A structured Survey was administered to twenty female farmers between the ages of 18 and 65. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five female farmers and five specialists to assess the user acceptance of the platform. The questions of the data collection instruments were based on technology acceptance constructs of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude toward using, and behavioral intention to continue using the platform. Findings: The agricultural e-commerce was well received, with most participants acknowledging its value (Perceived Usefulness) and expressing the intent (Behavioral intention) to use the platform after their suggested improvements were implemented. Furthermore, most participants found the application easy to use (Perceived Ease of Use) and had a positive attitude toward using (Attitude Toward Using) the platform. However, the research identified underlying technical and external factors that hindered widespread user acceptance. These included issues such as accessibility for individuals with disabilities, a difficult user experience for the elderly, and the lack of inclusion of other South African local languages on the platform. External factors such as internet connectivity challenges, limited access to smart devices, digital illiteracy, and expensive data were also found to impede user interaction and engagement with the application. Benefits of the study: This research provides important insights for software developers, governments, policymakers, and organizations interested in establishing agricultural e-commerce platforms for women in rural areas. It offers a detailed guide for designing and developing applications tailored to the needs of the intended users and gaining wider user acceptance. Furthermore, the research contributes to the current body of knowledge on the Technology Acceptance Model, offering detailed guidance on its application in various contexts, including gender-based and rural-specific contexts, to measure user acceptance. Overall, the research offers comprehensive guidelines for creating an all-encompassing agricultural e-commerce platform designed to empower women in underserved rural areas.
Open Access
Wetlands in changed landscapes: the influence of habitat transformation on the physico-chemistry of temporary depression wetlands
(Public Library of Science, 2014) Bird, Matthew S; Day, Jenny A
Temporary wetlands dominate the wet season landscape of temperate, semi-arid and arid regions, yet, other than their direct loss to development and agriculture, little information exists on how remaining wetlands have been altered by anthropogenic conversion of surrounding landscapes. This study investigates relationships between the extent and type of habitat transformation around temporary wetlands and their water column physico-chemical characteristics. A set of 90 isolated depression wetlands (seasonally inundated) occurring on coastal plains of the south-western Cape mediterranean-climate region of South Africa was sampled during the winter/spring wet season of 2007. Wetlands were sampled across habitat transformation gradients according to the areal cover of agriculture, urban development and alien invasive vegetation within 100 and 500 m radii of each wetland edge. We hypothesized that the principal drivers of physico-chemical conditions in these wetlands (e.g. soil properties, basin morphology) are altered by habitat transformation. Multivariate multiple regression analyses (distance-based Redundancy Analysis) indicated significant associations between wetland physico-chemistry and habitat transformation (overall transformation within 100 and 500 m, alien vegetation cover within 100 and 500 m, urban cover within 100 m); although for significant regressions the amount of variation explained was very low (range: ∼2 to ∼5.5%), relative to that explained by purely spatio-temporal factors (range: ∼35.5 to ∼43%). The nature of the relationships between each type of transformation in the landscape and individual physico-chemical variables in wetlands were further explored with univariate multiple regressions. Results suggest that conservation of relatively narrow (∼100 m) buffer strips around temporary wetlands is likely to be effective in the maintenance of natural conditions in terms of physico-chemical water quality.

Browsing by Subject "Agriculture"

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