Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Abstract: ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The amalgamation of the two large industries, agriculture and tourism, created a new industry called agritourism. Current farming practices are not securing employment opportunities for farm workers, and this situation will be aggravated by the increased economic pressures on farming. Agritourism is seen as a diversification option which could assist in creating jobs for the vulnerable and unemployed farm community, while at the same time create financial incentives to the farmer. This study specifically focused on the advantages which could be derived from agritourism, with Sen’s Capabilities Theory being used as frame of reference when determining the non-financial benefits accruing to the local community on the farm. A qualitative research approach was followed and information was gathered through interviews, observations and being embedded in the researched spaces. Two case study sites were used for primary research, Keisies Cottages (situated outside Montagu) and Tierhoek Cottages (situated outside Robertson). The management approach applied on the farms play an important role in developing the farm workers’ capabilities, entitlements and functionings as articulated in Sen’s Capabilities Theory. The two South African agritourism case study sites were found to follow some of the international trends identified during the literature review of this study but also offered new findings relevant to the South African context. Although agritourism is seen as a diversification strategy to ensure survival for most farmers, such strategies offer both financial and non-financial benefits to the broader farming community while having the potential to create a refuge for urban dwellers and assist visitors to reconnect with the farmers and their produce. This research contributes to the South African agritourism literature, which is currently limited. By highlighting some of the advantages of this industry, this research could also assist farm owners who are considering agritourism as a diversification strategy.
Author: Chantell Van Niekerk
Language: English
Subfield: Geography, Planning and Development
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2114560539