Systems and technologies for sustainable agriculture Brighton Shumba

SYSTEMS AND TECHCOLOGIES FOR

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE
Critical analysis of different farming approaches
Organic farming: a key to addressing global contextual challenges

Paper presented at the Eastern Cape Farmers Information Seminar

Brighton Shumba
Stellenbosch University and Lima Rural Development Foundation
November, 2012

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Systems and technologies for sustainable agriculture Brighton Shumba

Abstract
This paper is presents various approaches to farming namely organic farming,
permaculture, convectional farming, agroecology and biodynamic farming. A detailed
description of each approach will be given in this paper. Moreover, differences and
similarities between these perspectives will also be presented in this document. In
addition to that, a debate around conventional farming and sustainable farming
methods will be presented. The paper argues that organic farming is the best
sustainable farming practice that has got the capacity to address the current global
challenges. The idea is to address the technical constraints such as poor soils, low
rainfall, pests and diseases which limit food production. It is argued in this paper
that organic farming has got the potential to address these constraints. Based on
this claim, it is clear that organic farming contribute positively to this In addition to
that, the paper claims that organic farming creates employment, alleviates poverty,
improves the well-being of people, addresses food security issues and promotes the
conservation of natural resources on which all life depend on. Following that, the
paper claims that there is need for proper policies which promotes a transition from
destructive conventional agriculture to organic farming. Organic farming has got the
potential to “restore soils” and hence a long term food security. Furthermore, the
paper suggests small scale organic farming can address the current food insecurity
situation which is characterised by sky rocketing food prices.

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Systems and technologies for sustainable agriculture Brighton Shumba

Table of Contents
Abstract .................................................................................................................................................. 2
1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 4
1.1 Global challenges and constraints to agriculture .................................................................. 5
1.2 Conventional or Industrial agriculture .................................................................................... 6
1.3 Organic farming ......................................................................................................................... 7
1.4 Biodynamic farming ................................................................................................................... 9
1.5 Permaculture ............................................................................................................................ 10
1.6 Agroecology .............................................................................................................................. 11
1.7 Conclusion ................................................................................................................................. 12
Ncise Farm –Case Study .................................................................................................................... 13
1.0 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 13
1.2 Background of Ncise farm ...................................................................................................... 13
1.3 Crop production in hydroponics ............................................................................................. 14
1.4 Water conservation strategies ............................................................................................... 15
1.5 Maize production ...................................................................................................................... 15
1.6 Employment creation and poverty alleviation ..................................................................... 16
1.7 Stakeholder engagement and community participation .................................................... 16
1.8 Markets ...................................................................................................................................... 16
1.9 Constraints ................................................................................................................................ 17
1.10 Improvements ........................................................................................................................ 17
1.11 Conclusion............................................................................................................................... 20
1.12 Photographs ........................................................................................................................... 20

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Systems and technologies for sustainable agriculture Brighton Shumba

1.0 Introduction
There is a an increasing global interest on sustainable agriculture among people
from all walks of life especially given the current global contextual challenges of food
insecurity, unemployment, poverty, HIV/AIDS pandemic, resource depletion, social
marginalisation, rapid population growth, global warming and climate change. The
notion of sustainable agriculture emanated as a “response to depletion and
degradation of natural resources” associated with modern industrial agriculture.
Sustainable agriculture is a multidisciplinary notion that looks at various aspects of
farming and these aspects include biodiversity, soil management, crop production,
water conservation, nutrient management and animal husbandry. Sustainable
agriculture is “ecologically sound, economically viable, socially just and culturally
appropriate” (Class notes, 2013). In addition to that, sustainable agriculture
incorporates aspects of health, food security and energy utilisation (Class notes,
2013). According to Altieri (1989), sustainable agriculture creates “durable and
decent” employment and hence reduces vulnerability. He further mentioned that
sustainable agriculture promotes “regenerative capacity” of natural resources.
Making use of locally available resources is one of the crucial aspects of sustainable
agriculture. According to Bevac and Bevac (2007:20), sustainable agriculture should
encompass food production coupled with conservation of natural resources.

People from diverse sectors of the economy have got different perspectives and
viewpoints around the concept of sustainable agriculture. However, all these
viewpoints and approaches have a point of intersection. They are a lot of factors
that determine a choice of a farming perspective and among these are soil type,
climatic conditions, economic viability, social impacts, environmental impacts, food
security, resource availability, capital, land availability, health hazards, government
policies, access to markets. It is however crucial to choose farming practices which
are sustainable in order to curb current global challenges.

This paper is presents various approaches to farming namely organic farming,

permaculture, convectional farming, agroecology and biodynamic farming. A detailed
description of each approach will be given in this paper. Moreover, differences and
similarities between these perspectives will also be presented in this document. In
addition to that, a debate around conventional farming and sustainable farming
methods will be presented. The paper argues that organic farming is the best
sustainable farming practice that has got the capacity to address the current global
challenges. The idea is to address the technical constraints such as poor soils, low
rainfall, pests and diseases which limit food production. It is argued in this paper
that organic farming has got the potential to address these constraints. According to
UKZN TOUCH (2011), improving the quality of water and soil is crucial in maximising
agricultural production. Based on this claim, it is clear that organic farming
contribute positively to this In addition to that, the paper claims that organic

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farming creates employment, alleviates poverty, improves the well-being of people,

addresses food security issues and promotes the conservation of natural resources
on which all life depend on. Following that, the paper claims that there is need for
proper policies which promotes a transition from destructive conventional agriculture
to organic farming. Organic farming has got the potential to “restore soils” and
hence a long term food security. According to Swilling and Annecke (2012:140),
there is a link between soil deterioration and rising prices of food. Furthermore, the
paper suggests small scale organic farming can address the current food insecurity
situation which is characterised by sky rocketing food prices. Chitja (2011) suggests
that the solution to the problem of food insecurity lies in small scale farming. She
further explains that if the local small scale farmers are given essential resources
such as water and adequate farming skills, the challenge can be overcome. In
addition to that, Chitja feels that empowering small scale farmers through helping
them “develop crops and get them to the market” is crucial is addressing the
sustainability problem of agriculture. She claims that there is a decrease in
agriculture related investments and the number of commercial farmers is decreasing.
Dr Herald, who is a lecturer in the Economic History and Developmental studies,
feels that if small scale farming is conceptualised “within a different and sustainable”
way, then small scale farmers will lead the edge in reducing food security threats in
the current context of economic, political and environmental uncertainty.

“Household food security through homestead gardens has a huge potential

contribution to alleviation of hunger and poverty at household level over a
long term basis” (Class notes, 2013).

The discussion starts by presenting the current global challenges which are a threat
to sustainable development and the relationship of these to sustainable agriculture.
Following that, a discussion on convention farming is presented and all the
challenges brought by this type of farming are laid bare. Subsequently, the paper
will look in organic farming as well as other ecological farming systems and this will
form of part of the farming approach debate.

1.1 Global challenges and constraints to agriculture

According to Kate (2008), there is a current world crisis and this has been triggered
by skyrocketing of fuel prices, and this has also caused the prices of agricultural
inputs to go up. It is therefore crucial to introduce low input farming systems so as
to curb this challenge. Kate (2008) also feels that the food crisis has also been a
result of neglect of natural resources such as water and soils. Food insecurity poses
great risks to both urban and rural poor. Out of the seven billion people in the
world, one billion of them are hungry (UKZN TOUCH, 2011:9). According to the
International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for
Development (IAASTD), “over 800million people are underweight and malnourished,

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while changes in diet, the environment and lifestyle worldwide have resulted in
1.6billion overweight adults” (Swilling and Annecke, 2012:138).

Water, which is referred to as “the lifeblood of agriculture” is a resource which is

deteriorating each and every day (UKZN TOUCH, 2011). To maintain the production
levels, farmers will need 17% more fresh water by 2050 and that is a great
challenge since 70% of world’s water is already being used for irrigation purposes
(UKZN TOUCH, 2011).

According to Mbadi (2011), there is an increasing scarcity of water and food.

“Food and water are scarce commodities: poverty is escalating at

unacceptable levels and the impact of climate change on a healthy agriculture
sector is devastating. Experts have warned that climate change is the biggest
threat facing our planet” (Mbadi, 2011).

There is increasing evidence that ecosystems that “make agriculture possible” are
gradually diminishing as the “level of extraction and exploitation” increase (Swilling
and Annecke, 2012:139). They further claim that although agriculture is influenced
by a “complex matrix of interlinked ecosystems” which includes water, soils, nutrient
cycles and stable climates, the deterioration of soils is most distressing. Altieri (1989)
agrees with Swilling and Annecke and he claims that agriculture is being threatened
by “resource scarcity, environmental degradation and social marginalisation”.

According to UKZN TOUCH (2011:9), climate change and global warming has caused
deterioration to agricultural harvests as well as the entire food system at large.
Massive droughts or floods as a result of climate change impact hugely on food
production.

Weeds, pests and diseases also form part of the technical constraints that impact
negatively on agricultural productivity. Efficient farming approaches such as organic
farming are crucial in addressing these challenges.

1.2 Conventional or Industrial agriculture

This is a modern type of farming which is characterised by use of artificial chemical
fertilizers, synthetic pesticides, herbicides and biotechnologies. It is the contrary to
agroecological systems which do not use these chemical inputs. The use of fertilizers
and pesticides pollutes ground water and poses health hazards to human beings
(Kate, 2008). In addition to that, reduction in the “nutrient use efficiency” as a result
of excessive use of chemical fertilizers results in high costs of production. This is
because more fertilizer will be needed to maintain productivity (Albrecht, 1938). This
makes conventional farming less sustainable when compared to other low input
farming approaches. All the consequences of conventional farming are a “thorn in
the flesh” of the poor resource farmers who cannot keep up with the escalating

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prices of fuel pesticides and fertilizers. It is clear from these arguments that,
conventional farming is incapable of solving the current global challenges.

According to the Planning Commission of India (2001:2), an increased use of

chemical pesticides and fertilizers in conventional agriculture results in soil and water
degradation. They claim that chemicals cause pollution on food, drinking water and
air. Magdoff (2007) has got the same view with the Planning Commission of India
and he claims that the uses of chemical fertilizers cause water pollution and hence
posing health hazards to human beings and animals.

One other aspect of conventional agriculture is monoculture. Monoculture a farming

practice that involves the growing of a single crop on an extensive area and for a
number of consecutive years. According to Magdoff (2007), monoculture reduces
biodiversity and it makes pest and disease control difficult. He further mentions that
monoculture depletes soil nutrients and hence eliminating important soil micro-
organisms.

Conventional agriculture has got negative destructive impacts on the environment.

Some of the problems include increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, ocean
acidification, loss of biodiversity and fresh water pollution (Class notes, 2013).

It is also worrying to note that conventional farming is dominated by commercial

farmers who do not “care”. They do monopolise and detect what favours them on
the market. Commercial farming is characterised by elite corruption and this leaves
the poor with no option but to suffer (Class notes, 2013). It is however crucial for
commercial farmers to learn about conservation as well as know how to interact with
the local community and this will promote sustainability.

1.3 Organic farming

Organic farming is the key to addressing the current global contextual challenges. It
makes use of locally available resources whilst creating sustainable employment
opportunities. Food from organic farming is health and this improves the quality of
life and hence reducing poverty Organic farming sustains the health of soil, people
and ecosystems (Class notes, 2013). Subsequently, it combines tradition, innovation
and science to benefit the shared environment so as promote good quality of life for
all involved. It is interesting to note that organic farming has got the potential to
address problems such as starvation, malnutrition and obesity, and hence alleviating
poverty. In addition to that, it caters for the rural resource poor farmers who cannot
buy the expensive artificial inputs. This makes organic farming an economically
viable farming approach. Following that, organic farming is concerned about the
natural environment and that is why it discourages the use of synthetic pesticides
and chemicals which pollute the air, soil and water. According to Kate(2008:2), the
use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides combined with “high yielding
varieties” has resulted in high farm inputs and hence reducing the economic viability
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of the farming business. In organic farming, the use of heavy machinery such as
tractors, combine harvesters and boom sprayers are discouraged. Organic farming
discourages use of heavy machinery because they degrade soils through compaction
and erosion. According to Magdoff (2007), practices such as zero tillage or minimum
tillage and use of cover crops are crucial in addressing challenges of soil erosion.
Kate (2008) feels that soil is a crucial “entity” which determines the extent of
agricultural productivity and hence need to be conserved.

Practices such as crop rotations, cultural pest control and “organic amendments” are
crucial alternatives to reduce energy use in agricultural production and most of these
practices are used by organic farmers (Altieri, 1989:40). Crop rotations break the life
cycle of insects and diseases and weed cycles (Altieri, 2007). Furthermore, organic
farming practices involve the application of low input technologies which improves
soil fertility through recycling of nutrients. Since these technologies have less
destructive environmental impacts, they have the potential to contribute to
addressing the current global challenges. Moreover, organic farming is cost effective
in the sense that it uses less inputs and produce high outputs, and hence high
profits. According to Bevac and Bevac (2007), organic farming methods increase
yields using less “’external inputs”.

According to Bevac and Bevac (2007), organic farming systems “enhance soil
structure, conserve water and ensure the conservation and sustainable use of
biodiversity”. Through organic farming, a healthy soil which contains abundant
organic matter can be maintained (Man, 2008). This is crucial in preventing soil
erosion, retaining soil water and reducing loss of nutrients through leaching.

This farming approach has emerged as a response to “exploitative” conventional

agriculture that has destructive impacts on the environment, humans, soil and water
resources (Planning Commission of India, 2001:1). Organic farming has gained
popularity as result of the increasing demand for healthy food by consumers (Kate,
2008).

According to Kate (2008), for the world to be food secure, people should have
access to “healthy” food. Organic farming is a solution to this since it produces food
which is healthy and free from artificial chemicals. Artificial chemicals in agriculture
pose great to the consumer (UKZN TOUCH, 2011:10). Healthy food originates from
“well integrated, competitive and low cost systems” such as organic farming.

Organic farming brings about food sovereignty. Food sovereignty is “the right of
people to healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through ecologically
sound and sustainable farming methods” (Class notes, 2013).In additions to that,
the people have got the right to “define their own food and agriculture systems”. I
do feel that organic farming respects people’s right through provision of organic food
which is healthy.
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The Planning Commission of India feels that, organic farming is a sustainable

substitute to chemical oriented conventional agriculture (2001:4). They claim that it
is “socially just”, “economically viable” and “environmentally friendly”. This is
achieved through application of manure, controlling weeds culturally and planting at
the right time. According to a UN FAO research, given the same land, the yield of
organic farming is double when comparing with conventional farming and this has
got a positive impact on poverty eradication (Class notes, 2013).

Organic farming of creates employment for the local people. According to Badgley et
al (2006), organic farming promotes human labour by avoiding the use of heavy
machinery and this creates local employment. In organic tillage is done by use of ox-
drawn implements operated by people and this creates jobs. Moreover, weeding is
done by hand using hoes.

One of the distinct features of organic farming is what is referred as “organic

certification”. Organic certification is done by an “internationally networked” NGO
called International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM). Organic
certification is an aspect that differentiates organic farming from other sustainable
agriculture approaches. Bevac and Bevac (2007), feels that certification and
accreditation are crucial as they protect consumer expectations.

1.4 Biodynamic farming

According to Diver (1999), biodynamic farming is an “advanced” farming system
which has some similarities with organic farming. In other words, there is a point of
intersection between these two farming systems. Biodynamic farming matches with
organic farming in the sense that both promote cultural and biological farming
practices. Biodynamic farming is a “holistic” approach to farming in which crops and
livestock are integrated, nutrients are recycled and soil is maintained (Diver,
1999:2). Just like organic farming, biodynamic farming makes use of holistic
management practices that addresses the social, environmental and economic
aspects of the farm (Diver, 1999). The fact that biodynamic farming emphasises on
food quality and soil health has caused this farming approach to gain popularity
(Diver, 1999). Biodynamic farming produces food which has got “high nutritional
value” and which tastes better, and the same goes with organic farming.

Biodynamic farming is associated with “spiritual science of anthroposophy” and this

makes it diverge from organic farming (Diver, 1999:2). In other words, biodynamic
is a “mystical” or spiritual approach to farming. Following that, it puts emphasis on
practices that are meant to attain equilibrium and stability between the “physical”
and the “non-physical”. According to Diver (1999), biodynamic farming recognises
the influence of “cosmic and terrestrial” forces on farming practices.

Biodynamic farmers believe that there are other forces that have influence on
biological systems other that “gravity, chemistry and physics” (Diver, 1999).
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Biodynamic farming involves the use of special compost preparations and application
of foliar sprays (Diver, 1999). This involves the use of “microbial nutrient givers”
namely algae, bacteria, fungi and mycorhiza. The Planning Commission of India
(2001) agrees with Diver and they mention that biodynamic farming involves the use
of bio-fertilizers and bio-control methods. In addition to that, biodynamic farmers do
their planting based on the moon calendar (Diver, 1999). Moreover, they control the
pests through “peppering”.

The use of organic manures, green manures and the application of biological pest
management systems are encouraged in biodynamic farming (Planning Commission
of India, 2001:3). These practices are emphasised in organic farming and they are
seen as fundamental pillars. It also interesting to note that biodynamic farming
“prohibits” the use of synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers. However,
conventional agriculturalists feel that these agro-chemicals are their daily bread.
Biodynamic farmers just like organic farmers, they control pests biologically by use
of natural predators and parasites, and this totally eliminates the use of synthetic
fertilizers (Planning Commission of India, 2001). In biodynamic farming practices
such as composting, crop rotations, intercropping and mixed cropping are crucial,
just as they are in organic farming (Diver, 1999).

Biodynamic farming involves relating farming operations to tides of the moon. In

addition to that, it also makes use of fertility cycles (menstruation) in its operation
(Class notes, 2013).

1.5 Permaculture
This is an approach sustainable agriculture that involves an integration of
sustainable technologies such as water management, soil management, renewable
energy, waste management, agronomy, revolving plant propagation, growing of
herbs and medicinal plants, horticulture, apiculture, small livestock and food
processing. All these permaculture services promote sustainable agriculture through
the renewal of natural resources and enrichment of people and ecosystems
(Agriculture, forestry and fisheries, 2013).

Permaculture involves the design of household and food systems, and this includes
gardens, settlements and animal housing (Rosenberg and Linders, 2007). In
addition to that, it designs nature restoration systems, seed restoration and plant
breeding systems (Rosenberg and Linders, 2007).

Permaculture has believes in observation and interaction of various elements within

an ecosystem. Permaculture designers’ thinking shifts to the whole systems and
interconnected webs of interactions as opposed to specialising (Class notes,
2013).They believes the systems should self –regulate themselves and time should
be allowed for feedback.

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Use of renewable energy is one of the most crucial aspects of permaculture.

According to Rosenberg and Linders (2007), permaculture utilises renewable sources
of energy, material and work as a matter of priority however, the use of non-
renewable energy should only be ethically used towards achieving sustainability.

Above all, waste management is key in permaculture design. This involves the use of
compost material for gardening. In addition to that, manure from livestock is also
used for farming (Class notes, 2013).

1.6 Agroecology
This is a “scientific discipline that uses ecological theory to study, manage and
evaluate agricultural systems that are productive but also resource consuming”
(Altieri, 1989). For Swilling and Annecke (2012), agroecology is a restorative farming
approach that has got the capacity to safeguard food security through “rebuilding
global ecosystems” on which farming relies on. Although both agroecology play a
pivotal role in addressing challenges facing agriculture, it is an “umbrella”’ field that
incorporates various agricultural systems such as organic farming, biodynamic
farming and permaculture. Agroecology promotes a transition from conventional
farming towards sustainable farming practices such as organic farming and
biodynamic farming (Class notes, 2013).

According to Kate (2008), agroecological farming has the potential to address the
current global challenges just like organic farming. Agroecology has the capacity to
convert productive potentials into “sustainable” livelihoods for all (Altieri, 1989). One
of the objectives of agroecology is to enhance the technical capacity of farmers and
reduce the depletion of the natural resource base while taking into consideration
social, economic and political challenges (Altieri, 1989). Magdoff (2007) feels that
agroecology is all about “strengthening the natural resources” so that agricultural
systems can benefit.

Just like organic farming agroecology favours the application of Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) instead of control approaches which are chemically based
(Altieri, 1989). Similarities between agroecology are the use of crop rotations,
cultural pest control, reduction in energy use in agriculture and organic amendments
to the soil. According to Swilling and Annecke (2012), agroecological farming
practices are low input and they promote natural resources conservation. They
argue that the main idea of agroecology is to come up with agricultural systems that
sustain production without the depletion of resources.

There is one interesting difference between agroecology and organic farming which
around application of chemical fertilisers, herbicides, GMOs and synthetic pesticides.
Agroecology involves the application of artificial chemicals where necessary with the
objective of producing more food on the table (Class notes, 2013). However, with
organic farming there is no use of fertilizers, pesticides and toxic substances at all
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and this is because it is concerned about the health and upkeep of the soil, people
and animals (Class notes, 2013). Although agroecology farmers use compost, they
tend to mechanise their compost.

Since agroecology is more concerned about mass production it tries to minimise

wastage for example tomatoes are harvested whilst they are still green in order to
reduce harvesting and transportation losses. However with organic farming, the
produce is allowed to ripe before harvesting and this increase damage and wastage
(Class notes, 2013).

1.7 Conclusion
A number of farming approaches have been discussed and it is deniable that organic
farming plays a pivotal role in addressing the global contextual challenges. Organic
farming brings about fairness and care as well as taking the health of people and
natural environment into consideration. This is very crucial in promoting sustainable
development. It also came out in the discussion that conventional farming is not the
way to go if global challenges are to be addressed. The future lies on small scale
organic farming but however there is room for further research on the above
discussion since different people have different feelings around sustainable
development. A transition to sustainable farming approach may be an option but it
gives people a leeway to continue exploiting and degrading natural resources.

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Ncise Farm –Case Study

1.0 Introduction
A review of Ncise farm will be presented in this section. The discussion will start with
the background of the farm. An investigation of this farm has been done and aspects
such as land ownership, size of land, soil types, type of production, tilling methods
and irrigation methods will be given in this discussion Moreover, the discussion looks
into farming practices which are being applied on this farm and this include
reviewing pest and diseases management systems, water conservation strategies,
nutrient management systems and soil conservation solutions. In addition to that
social issues such as community participation, poverty alleviation, crime reduction
and employment creation will form part of the discussion. Following that, market
aspects will be highlighted.

The discussion analyses the farming approach at Ncise farm and special attention
will be given to the agricultural sustainability of this farming approach.
Recommendations on how to achieve sustainability will also be given.

1.2 Background of Ncise farm

Ncise farm is a commercial farm which is located 13km from the town of Mthatha in
the Eastern Cape. The farm is located in Ncise Administrative Area. In addition to
that, it is adjacent to Mthatha Airport. It is also interesting to note that Ncise farm
has a close proximity to Mthatha dam which supplies Mthatha town with water. This
is a crucial agricultural resource. The land was previously owned by the Ncise
community and with the development of Mthatha airport, the community was
dispossessed of the land by the government. Some of the community members lost
their farming land as a result of this development. The government later realised
that the land was just too big for Airport development and they decided to set aside
a portion for crop production. That is how Ncise farm came to be established. The
government then leased the land to a company called Mthatha Airport Agricultural
Services (MAAS) on condition that they will involve the community in their
operations.

Currently, Ncise farm is being run by Mthatha Airport Agricultural Services who are
into crop production. The arable land is 59 hectares and these have been divided

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into 2 sections. One section is for vegetable production whilst the other one is for
cereals. The area used for vegetable production is 5hectares and for cereals is
10hectares. The rest of the land is idle and this because of lack of capital and water
resources. The land consists of deep red soils and clay loam soils with an effective
root zone depth of 90cm. These soils are good for agricultural production.

1.3 Crop production in hydroponics

The crops grown at Ncise farm include cabbage, spinach, lettuce, green pepper,
cucumber and maize. They make use of hybrids seeds. All the vegetables are grown
inorganically making the farming approach conventional.

The vegetables are grown in modern infrastructure called hydroponics. At Ncise farm
they have two types of hydroponics. There is one which is referred to as thin film
nutrient recycling system. This system makes use of a thin film of water mixed with
chemical fertilizers and artificial nutrients that runs through the seed bed. The
seedbed is prepared using crushed stone laid on top of a plastic impermeable
material and there is no soil involved in this type of technology. The stone is
sourced from a quarry field which is about 50km away. The crushed stone is used to
anchor the plant as well as facilitate the distribution of water. The seedbed has a
slope of 1% and this is done to allow nutrient solution flow by gravity. At the end of
each bed, there is a collector which conveys the solution to underground tanks for
recycling. This is a water conserving strategy within this type of technology. Crops
grown using this technology include cabbage, lettuce, spinach and green pepper.
According to Francis Chiveso, the Farm Manager at Ncise, the cabbage production at
Ncise is 26000 head/hectare and spinach production is 30 000 bundles/hectare.

The other technology makes use of drip irrigation systems within the greenhouses.
The crops are grown in plastic pockets filled with pine sawdust which is sourced
from a saw mill which is about 45km away from the farm. This technology also
makes use of chemical fertilizers such as calcium nitrate and ammonium nitrate .The
crops grown in these greenhouses are tomato and cucumber.

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In all these technologies, water and nutrient is controlled by computer programs.

Irrigation is usually dependant on the type of crop as well as the stage. According to
Chiveso (2013), irrigation cycle is 7days and the set time per cycle is about 8hours.

In terms of weed of management in the greenhouses, herbicides such as atrazine

are used to control weeds. However, manual labour is used in order to cut costs
since herbicides are expensive. In addition to that, pests and diseases are controlled
by use of synthetic pesticides and fungicides. Crop rotations are also done to control
pest and diseases. The fact that the crops are grown in greenhouses also reduces
the vulnerability of them to pests such as birds.

1.4 Water conservation strategies

At Ncise, they have adopted technologies that conserve water. The thin film nutrient
cycling system recycles both water and nutrient which makes it water economic. In
addition to that, gutters have been installed on the green houses and these harvest
water which is used for irrigation.

1.5 Maize production

This is done outside the green houses making use of the deep red and clay loam
soils. This production makes use of tractors coupled with ploughs and disc harrows
for tilling the soil. The type of irrigation system applied to maize production is drag
hose sprinkler irrigation system. Planting is done seed planter. Moreover, weed
control is done a cultivator. However, local labour is usually hired to do the weeding.
A boom sprayer is used for application of pesticides and fungicides.

Soil conservation strategies are also being implemented at Ncise farm and these
include contour ridging and terracing. These have got a huge impact in reducing soil
erosion on the farm.

Ncise is practising monoculture which is not a sustainable practice. According to

Magdoff (2007), monoculture reduces biodiversity and it makes pest and disease
control difficult. He further mentions that monoculture depletes soil nutrients and
hence eliminating important soil micro-organisms. It is there for recommended that
they resort to crop rotations. Crop rotations help in fixing nitrogen into the soil if a
legume is included in the rotation. In addition to that, crop rotations assist in
controlling pests and diseases.

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1.6 Employment creation and poverty alleviation

MAAS has got 11 permanent employees and 20 casual labourers who are on
seasonal contracts. In addition to that, more casual labourers are hired in cases
where more work needs to be done within a short period of time especially during
harvesting times. It is interesting to note that all the labours are from Ncise
community. This shows that Ncise Farm is playing a pivotal role in creating
employment opportunities for the local people. In addition to that, poverty is being
reduced since the employed people get income to look after their families and this
has a positive impact on the quality of life for the local people. Moreover, poverty is
reduced through addressing food security issues. The labourers are given food for
free and the local people from the community buy the produce at cheaper prices.
Addressing insecurity is one of the objectives of sustainable development.

Skills development through on-farm training is also a crucial aspect which is done at
Ncise farm. With these skills the local people can also start up their small gardens
and this will address the issue of insecurity.

On another note, creating employment also reduces crime within the community.
Since most will be people are hunger free, income stable and are occupied at work,
they won’t have time to go around stealing.

1.7 Stakeholder engagement and community participation

Stakeholder engagement and public participation are among some of the key priority
areas at Ncise. MAAS, who are managing Ncise farm hold monthly meetings with all
relevant stakeholders and in these meetings, labour and environmental issues are
discussed. Suggestions from concerned parties are also taken into consideration.
Stakeholders include Department of Agriculture, Department of Social Development,
local municipalities, NGOs and the local community at large.

1.8 Markets
The produce from Ncise farm is sold to supermarkets in Mthatha town and these
include Spar, all 7 Spar supermarkets and Shoprite. In addition to that, there is big
local market called Kei Fresh produce where all local farmers bring their produce for
sale. This market is monitored by the local municipality. Ncise is only about 13km
away Mthatha town and this makes it easier for it to access the market. There are

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having challenges in selling their inorganic produce since most restaurants such as
Nando’s, Barceló’s and Spurs strictly need organic vegetables. They could expand
their market if they resort to organic farming by making use of the rich soils they
have.

1.9 Constraints
At Ncise farm, water is the biggest challenge despite its proximity to Mthatha dam.
The farm depends of municipal water which is not reliable. This poses a great threat
to agricultural productivity at Ncise. However, as a supplementary means, a
borehole has been drilled on the farm. The water from the borehole is not enough
though, to cater for all the farming operations on the farm. A plan to draw water
from Mthatha dam has been set and a feasibility survey has already been done but
the biggest challenge is capital. In addition to that, MAAS which is running Ncise
farm does not have enough capital for expansion. The largest portion of the land is
laying idle as a result of financial constraints.

The other challenge that is being faced by Ncise is the inability to diversity their
farming. According to Chiveso (2013), Ncise farm wanted to venture into poultry
farming so that they could integrate it with crop production. However due to
government regulations the move failed since the government claimed that the farm
was too close to the Airport and hence it was unhealthy.

1.10 Improvements
I do argue that Ncise farm can be transformed from its conventional way of farming
to organic farming. There are many benefits which come with organic farming.
According to Diver (1999), conventional farming systems result in the deterioration
in the “health and quality” of crops and animals. Conventionally grown food contains
“harmful” additives such as pesticides, hormones and nutrients which pose health
hazards to humans and animals (Bevac and Bevac, 2007).

Following that, there is need for expansion of the farming operations by increasing
the land under production. Currently there is about 44hectares of land which laying
idle. According Kate (2008), an increase in area under cultivation contributes to an
increased crop yield and hence addressing food security. I also argue that, modern

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technology such hydroponics is not appropriate for rural communities as they do not
make use of locally available resources.

“Application of inappropriate technologies result in the inefficient use of local

natural resources and this is a threat to rural development” (Kate, 2008:5).

There is great market for organic food especially given the Ncise farm’s close
proximity to Mthatha airport. At Mthatha airport, there are lot restaurants who sell
organic food and this is a ready market with minimum transport costs for Ncise farm.
Shops such Pick and Pay sell strictly organic food and they have rejected Ncise‘s
current inorganic produce so by moving from conventional farming to organic
farming more markets can be created. There is an increasing demand for organic
food which is healthy. According to Bevac and Bevac (2007), organic food has grown
popularity a result of increased public awareness. Healthy food boosts immune
systems and hence increasing the life expectancy. It also improves the quality of life
and hence reducing poverty.

In addition to that, organic farming practices produce more food when compared to
conventional farming.

“Organic methods produce enough food on a global per capita basis to

sustain the current human population and potentially an even larger
population, without increasing the agricultural land base” (Kate, 2008:5).

Badgley et al (2007:92) have got the same feeling as Kate and they claim that
“organic production has got the potential to support a substantially larger human
population than currently exists”.

According to Kate (2008), people should have access to sufficient healthy food for
the world to be food secure. Through organic farming, Ncise farm could reduce costs
in terms of agricultural inputs. Currently they depend on chemical fertilisers and
pesticides which are expensive. Organic farming makes use of locally available
resources. In addition to that, costs can be cut by introducing a legume in crop
rotations as they fix nitrogen into the soil for the heavy feeders and hence reducing
the need for artificial fertilizers (Altieri, 1989). The use of pesticides and herbicides

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results in high farm inputs (Diver, 1999). According to Kate (2008:2), healthy food
originates from “well – integrated, competitive and low-cost systems” based on the
sustainable use natural resources.

In terms of tillage, Ncise could adopt zero or minimum tillage systems by avoiding
the use of heavy machinery. Hand tillage or use of ox-drawn ploughs could be used
and reduces compaction of the soil. It will reduce accelerated soil erosion since there
will be less soil disturbance Degradation of soil which is caused by soil erosion
results in nutrient depletion. Man (2008) discourages the use of heavy machinery
and he argues that:

“Heavy machinery such as tractors and combine harvesters mash wet soils
into undifferentiated high impenetrable slab- a process called compaction”(
Man,2008).

Ncise need to avoid the use of heavy machinery so as to reduce compaction. By

reducing soil compaction challenges such as waterlogging can be reduced.
Waterlogging suffocates crops and this result in stunted growth. Moreover, by
avoiding use of heavy machinery more local employment can be created. The work
that used to be done by machinery can then be done manually and hence creating
local jobs.

Ncise farm could use renewable energy sources such as solar energy for running the
borehole. This means they won’t rely on Eskom electricity for pumping water and
hence cutting costs on the farm. This increase the economic viability of the farm.

Since Ncise farm has got a close proximity to Mthatha dam, water could be drawn
from this dam. This means more water will be available for irrigation. More land
could then be put under production. According to Kate (2008), increasing area under
irrigation increases the production output. UKZN TOUCH (2011) claims that water is
crucial in agriculture and they refer it to as the “life blood” of agriculture. However,
excessive irrigation could lead to salination of the soil.

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1.11 Conclusion
It is clear from the discussion that Ncise farm is purely a conventional farm
characterised by modern exploitative technologies which are not “economically
viable, socially just and environmentally friendly”. In addition to that, it is possible to
apply organic farming principles at Ncise and transform it to a more sustainable farm
where local resources are made use of. It is recommended that government policies
are crucial in this transition to sustainable agriculture.

1.12 Photographs
Below are photographs showing the hydroponics and technologies being applied at
Ncise farm.

Cabbage grown under thin film nutrient recycling technology at Ncise farm

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Lettuce grown under thin film nutrient recycling technology

Cucumber in drip irrigated greenhouses

Computer programming – Nutrient and water regulation

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Use of various chemical fertilizers

Tanks of different chemical solutions

Machinery at Ncise Farm

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