COVID-19 supply chain disruptions: opportunities for business growth created by the pandemic for young farmers in Orange Farm in South Africa

Abstract

This paper provides an early evaluation of the experiences of young farmers (ages 20-35 years) from Orange Farm in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic period from March 2020 to January 2021. COVID-19 disrupted supply chains severely and this affected the traditional customer base of many young farmers due to travel restrictions. Using a qualitative approach, this paper discusses the lived experiences of young farmers during the periodic COVID-19-induced lockdowns. Despite the many challenges brought about by COVID-19, it also brought with it opportunities for growth and increased income for young farmers. The study findings showed that the lockdown imposed on South Africa to curb the spread of COVID-19 was somewhat a blessing in disguise for young farmers who were able to capitalize on the supply chain disruptions and grab a significant local market share for their produce due to community members' restricted movement. Operating within the confines of their community, young farmers managed to bridge the gaps in the local food supply chain. Young farmers also turned to e-commerce as people minimized physical contact and practised social distancing. These developments are expected to have a lasting impact on young farmers' business operations and there are far
reaching policy implications emanating from this study.