Farmers ' Perceptions of Conservation Agriculture Benefits and Adoption in Mopani District, South Africa

Abstract

Abstract: Conservation Agriculture (CA) is increasingly recognized as a climate-smart approach that enhances soil health and boosts crop production, particularly among resource-constrained emerging farmers. Nevertheless, the adoption of CA in South Africa's Mopani District remains notably low. This study employed quantitative analysis to examine the factors influencing CA adoption, farmers' perceptions of the practice, and its impact on crop yields. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a sample of 250 emerging farmers, incorporating both adopters and non-adopters of CA practices. The data analysis employed descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression to identify the determinants of CA adoption, as well as multiple linear regression to assess the impact of CA on crop yields. The findings reveal that access to extension services initiatives is designed to provide farmers with essential information and support, which serves as a critical aspect of the success of CA adoption. Availability of credit facilities is the most significant predictor of successful CA adoption. CA is statistically linked to a notable increase in maize yields, as Mopani District CA adopters, on average, had a harvest of 410 kilograms per hectare, compared with counterparts using the conventional systems. However, farmers express concerns regarding weed management and the high initial costs of equipment, which impede wider adoption. This investigation provides vital insights for the development of targeted policies that promote sustainable agriculture and enhance farmer resilience in the Mopani District. Keywords: Conservation agriculture, emerging farmers, perceptions, adoption