The potential for nutritional benefits from increased agricultural production in rural Kwazulu-Natal

Abstract

This paper reviews findings of South African nutritional studies and compares the findings of an expenditure elasticity study in two rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal to determine the potential for improved nutrition through promotion of increased agricultural production among rural households. The findings suggest that only once agricultural production progresses to commercialisation do household members benefit nutritionally from increased production at household level. Suggestions are made as to how nutritional benefit can be ensured through increased, intensified and / or expanded agricultural production at household level.


South African Journal of Agricultural Extension Vol.32 2003: 28-44