The design, implementation and effects of the Nguni project in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

Abstract

The main objective of the study was to examine the design, implementation and effects of the Nguni project in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. This was seen as an important exercise considering that most agricultural development initiatives in rural communities fail or their success rate has been low. Agricultural development initiatives should provide economic and social benefits, failing which; most well-intentioned initiatives result in adverse effects to the society. Therefore, an examination of the design, implementation and effects of the Nguni project would go a long way in helping to highlight and rectify pit-falls in similar future intended projects. A sample survey was conducted in Amatole, OR Tambo, Chris Hani, and Alfred Nzo District Municipalities, using structured questionnaires, supplemented by observation. The questionnaire covered demographic, management and personal aspects in order to elicit respondents‟ values, aspirations, experiences and perceived constraints. The data were analysed using descriptive and quantitative statistics. The findings indicate that the project was well designed and implemented, though its performance suffered from some problems that can be corrected through proper involvement of all the institutions involved.