Comparing Contracts: An Evaluation of Contract Farming Schemes in Africa

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Periodical article

Title:	Comparing Contracts: An Evaluation of Contract Farming Schemes in Africa
Authors:	Porter, Gina Phillips-Howard, Kevin
Year:	1997
Periodical:	World Development
Volume:	25
Issue:	2
Period:	February
Pages:	227-238
Language:	English
Geographic terms:	Nigeria South Africa
Subjects:	contract farming Agriculture, Natural Resources and the Environment Development and Technology Labor and Employment Politics and Government
External link:	https://doi.org/10.1016/S0305-750X(96)00101-5
Abstract:	Contract farming as it currently operates in Africa poses problems for many of the more disadvantaged groups in associated rural communities. This paper examines contract farming in Nigeria and South Africa. Fieldwork was carried out in two locations: a study on the Jos Plateau in Nigeria in 1991-1992 concerning a small barley outgrower scheme, from small farmer and brewery perspectives; and fieldwork in Transkei and Natal in 1994, which encompassed a number of contract farming schemes - sugar and tea in Transkei and two sugar schemes in Natal. The principal focus here was on Transkei. In this case contract farming was explored not just from company and farmer viewpoints but also from the labour perspective. Attention was also paid to gender issues. The recommendations listed are specifically concerned with power relationships between big business and small growers (including women) and the need to strengthen the position of small growers and labourers. Bibliogr., notes, ref.