The Use of Indigenous Knowledge in Subsistence Farming: Implications for Sustainable Agricultural Production in Dikgale Community in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The present study examined community-based mechanisms of continued subsistence farming under unfavourable environmental conditions. Semi-structured interviews conducted with a sample of 250 participants showed that community members sustain farming through their indigenous knowledge. Community members continue subsistence farming in their home-gardens and ploughing fields through indigenous farming practices and rainfall prediction. The practices involve improvement of soil fertility and structure, maintenance of crops, and seed selection and storage for future planting. Knowledge of rainfall prediction is helpful in planning the planting season. These indigenous practices could be helpful in the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal on food security, which requires a nutritionally adequate and safe food supply at household levels. 1.