Role of small-scale sugercane farmers in local economic development of the Darnall (KwaDukuza) Region.

Abstract

The local economy of Darnall is dominated by the sugar industry. Sugarcane cultivation and sugar production are the largest employers in the area. The research explores the contribution of small-scale sugarcane farmers on the LED of the Darnall area. The study was inspired by the Gijima KZN investment into the rehabilitation of small-scale sugarcane farms, for the promotion of LED in Darnall. The research objectives and research questions, explore the role of role small-scale sugarcane farmers in the LED of Darnall; the sustainability and implementation challenges experienced by the small-scale sugarcane farmers that impact on LED and LED strategies. The study was qualitative in nature, with a constructivism as the underpinned research paradigm. The focus group discussions were the employed data collection method. The research findings indicate that small-scale sugarcane contribute positively to the LED of Darnall, LED officials from local government agencies lack the knowledge and understanding on the subject of LED, local government does not have a uniquely adopted LED strategy but rather rely on the provincial and national’s governments LED strategy. It could be concluded that small-scale sugarcane farmers have a positive contribution on the LED of the Darnall area in direct and indirect ways.