Rapid Review of Vulnerable Areas in Western Cape

RAPID REVIEW OF DESIGNATED VULNERABLE AREAS IN THE WESTERN CA... Page 1 of 72

RAPID REVIEW OF DESIGNATED
VULNERABLE AREAS IN THE WESTERN
CAPE PROVINCE

Chapter 2
Central Karoo: Laingsburg

Prepared by: Charles Wyeth and Alan Webb

Prepared for: Provincial Administration: Western Cape, Department of Social
Services, Directorate: Poverty Alleviation

Date: 14 July 2002

mhtml:file://C:Documents and SettingsOwnerMy DocumentslaingsburgRAPID REVIE... 9/16/2011


RAPID REVIEW OF DESIGNATED VULNERABLE
AREAS IN THE WESTERN CAPE PROVINCE

Contact Persons:

Charles A Wyeth
Strategic Innovation Group
CSIR Manufacturing and Materials Technology
P.O Box 320
Stellenbosch
7599

Tel: +27 21 888 2400
Fax: + 27 21 888 2696
E-Mail: cwyeth@csir.co.za

Alan Webb
Enterprise Development Centre
CSIR Manufacturing and Materials Technology
15 Lower Hope Street
Rosebank
7700

Tel: +27 21 685 4309
Fax: + 27 21 689 1726
E-Mail: awebb@csir.co.za



FOREWORD

The CSIR is the premier technology and research organisation in Africa. It is committed to innovation,
supporting sustainable development and economic growth and creating value for our clients, partners
and stakeholders.

As a national asset, the CSIR provides technology solutions and information to support sustainable
development and economic growth in the context of national priorities.

As a Knowledge Intensive Technology Organisation, the CSIR provides its services through multi –
disciplinary project teams sourced from the CSIR's nine operating divisions, or from experts located in
partner organisations. Our multi- disciplinary approach means that CSIR is able to address complex
problems using the integration of the different skills and resources of our staff and partners, to provide
solutions to complex, multi-faceted problems and other challenges.

This report has been drafted by a core team of scientists, researchers and business development
specialists, with additional inputs from the following persons:

Core Team:

Charles Wyeth CSIR – Innovation and Business Development Group (Manufacturing
and Materials Technology)
Alan Webb CSIR – Enterprise Development Centre (Manufacturing and Materials
Technology)
Bernadette Brown CSIR - Environmentek
Sadi Luka CSIR – Technology for Development
Dave Harcourt CSIR - Biochemtek

Other Contributors:

At Kruger CSIR – Environmentek
Steve Button CSIR – Innovation and Business Development Group (Manufacturing
and Materials Technology)
Andries Naude CSIR – Roads and Transport Technology
Emma Maspero CSIR – Roads and Transport Technology
Sekokoko Lekalakala CSIR – Enterprise Development Centre (Manufacturing and Materials
Technology)
Godfrey Moses CSIR – Environmentek
Esbeth van Dyk CSIR – Roads and Transport Technology
Adrian Simmers CSIR – Environmentek
Maryke Meerkotter University of the Western Cape
Charlene Biggs University of the Western Cape

The CSIR would also like to acknowledge the contribution of the survey staff who participated in the
door-to-door Household Survey in each of the towns visited, particularly the individuals from those
towns.



TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION
2. LAINGSBURG
2.1 BACKGROUND
2.2 BIOPHYSICAL FEATURES
2.2.1 Rainfall
2.2.2 Watersheds
2.2.3 Altitude
2.2.4 Soils
2.2.5 Vegetation
2.3 SOCIO – DEMOGRAPHIC FEATURES
2.3.1 Profile of the population
2.3.2 Health Status
2.3.3 Literacy Levels
2.3.4 Social Assistance and Welfare Grant Beneficiaries
2.3.4.1 INTRODUCTION
2.3.4.2 MUNICIPAL GRANTS
2.3.4.3 GOVERNMENT PENSIONS
2.3.4.4 DISABILITY GRANTS
2.3.4.5 FOSTER –CARE GRANTS
2.3.4.6 CHILD SUPPORT GRANTS
2.3.4.7 CIVIL PENSIONS
2.3.4.8 CARE DEPENDENCY GRANTS
2.4 ECONOMIC FEATURES
2.4.1 INTRODUCTION
2.4.2 EMPLOYMENT AND UNEMPLOYMENT
2.4.3 INCOME LEVELS
2.4.4 CONSUMPTION PATTERNS
2.4.5 COMMENTARY
2.5 CREATING COMMUNITY ASSETS: INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY
2.5.1 INTRODUCTION
2.5.2 WATER PROVISION
2.5.3 SANITATION
2.5.4 ELECTRICITY SUPPLY
2.5.5 HOUSING
2.5.6 STREETS AND STORMWATER
2.5.7 COMMUNITY FACILITIES
2.5.8 COMMENTARY
2.6 CREATING COMMUNITY ASSETS: SOCIO-INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK
2.6.1 INTRODUCTION
2.6.2 LIST OF INSTITUTIONS AND ROLES
2.7 MOST VULNERABLE GROUPS
2.7.1 INTRODUCTION
2.7.2 CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN SEVEN YEARS OLD
2.7.3 OLD AGE PENSIONERS
2.7.4 CHILDREN AGED EIGHT TO SIXTEEN YEARS
2.7.5 PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY CHALLENGED PEOPLE



2.7.6 FEMALE-HEADED HOUSEHOLDS
2.7.7 MALE HEADED HOUSEHOLDS
2.8 DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND OTHER PROJECTS
2.8.1 INTRODUCTION
2.8.2 NATIONAL GOVERNMENT
2.8.3 PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT
2.8.3.1 Health
2.8.3.2 Education
2.8.3.3 Housing
2.8.3.4 Public Works
2.8.3.5 Transport
2.8.3.6 Agriculture
2.8.3.7 Economic Development
2.8.3.8 Social Services and Welfare
2.8.3.9 Sport and Recreation
2.8.4 DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY
2.8.5 LOCAL GOVERNMENT
2.8.6 OTHERS
2.9 DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT INTERVENTIONS: SOCIAL
2.9.1 INTRODUCTION
2.9.2 YOUNG CHILDREN
2.9.3 OLD AGE PENSIONERS
2.9.4 DISABLED PERSONS
2.9.5 UNEMPLOYED FEMALES
2.9.6 UNEMPLOYED MALES
2.9.7 RECOMMENDED SOCIAL INTERVENTIONS
PROPOSAL 1
ESTABLISHMENT OF VEGETABLE AND FRUIT TREE GARDENS
PROPOSAL 2
FISH – BASED FOODS AND FEEDS
FISHING EQUIPMENT
COLD STORAGE & PROCESSING EQUIPMENT
LAND
OTHER INPUTS
TRAINING AND CAPACITY BUILDING
FINANCE
2.10 DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT INTERVENTIONS: ECONOMIC
2.10.1 INTRODUCTION
2.10.2 PROPOSED INTERVENTIONS
PROPOSAL 1
ESTABLISHMENT OF A REGIONAL MARKETING BUSINESS
PROPOSAL 2
PROMOTION OF INDIGENOUS SHEEP BREEDS
PROPOSAL 3
PROCESSING AND VALUE ADDITION TO FRUIT AND VEGETABLES
LAND
WATER
OTHER INPUTS
FINANCE
PROPOSAL 4



PROMOTION OF MICRO – LIVESTOCK ENTERPRISES
PROPOSAL 5
HIDES, SKIN AND LEATHER BASED CRAFTS
PROPOSAL 6
HIDES, SKIN AND LEATHER BASED CRAFTS
PROPOSAL 7
INTEGRATION MODEL
CAPACITY AND COMPETENCE
BRANDING AND QUALITY CONTROL
FUNDING
PROPOSAL 8
INTEGRATED CRAFT AND TOURISM CENTRE
LAND
LABOUR
FUNDS
PRODUCTS FOR SALE
PROPOSAL 9
ESTABLISHMENT OF A TAXI SERVICE
FINANCE
RESPONSIBLE PARTY
LOW RATE CHARGED TO COMMUNITY
2.11 SECONDARY PRIORITY PROJECTS
2.11.1 CONSTRUCTION OF BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN PATH AND BICYCLES
FOR SCHOLARS.
2.11.2 UPGRADING OF THE TRUCK STOP
2.11.3 CHEESE MAKING BUSINESS – GOAT AND SHEEP MILK
2.11.4 COMMERCIALISATION OF KAROO WILD FLOWERS
2.11.5 INTRODUCTION OF OLIVE PRODUCTION AND PROCESSING
2.13 CLOSING REMARKS/COMMENTS BY THE CSIR



1. INTRODUCTION

The Central Karoo is the largest and poorest region in the Western Cape. It is sparsely
populated and distances between towns are great. Although the Karoo is a vast semi-desert
area, it is one of the world's most interesting arid zones. The total population of the Central
Karoo District is about 56500, with a Gross Regional Product of only R581 million. The two
leading sectors in the regional economy are agriculture and tourism.

Beaufort West in the biggest town in the region, with an estimated population of 31522, or just
under 56% of the region's population. The other major towns in the region are Prince Albert,
Murraysburg and Laingsburg.



2. LAINGSBURG

2.1 BACKGROUND

Laingsburg is a small town situated on the banks of the Buffelsriver in the Central Karoo about
200km from Cape Town. It is well known for the 1981 flood that devastated a large part of the
main town, although little evidence of the flood remains.

Laingsburg was originally established as a service centre for rural agriculture and rail transport.
Both these sectors are in decline in terms of economic activities, and the advances in
communication technology and road transport have resulted in redirecting much of the
economic activity to larger centres such as Cape Town and George.

The National Road from Cape Town to Johannesburg (N1) bisects the town, and is
responsible for generating a significant portion of the town’s income.

The town is currently structured into 4 sections:

• Centralised ‘Oudorp’ including the main business areas
• Nuwe dorp on the Western bank of the river
• Bergsig, an RDP housing development on the western extreme of the town
• Goldnerville on the eastern extreme

In addition, the area includes farmland as well as the settlements of Matjiesfontein (hotel and
28 houses) and Konstabel (3 houses). The Ou & Nuwe dorp settlements are predominantly
white, whilst Bergsig and Goldnerville are predominantly inhabited by the coloured community.
The black population is very small, at +/- 20 persons.

The town has:
• Municipal Offices
• Office of the Dept of Agriculture
• Traffic Department
• Police Station
• Magistrates Court
• Post Office
• 22 Bed Hospital with ambulance and Helicopter landing. 8 nurses and one doctor.
• Railway Station
• Two public schools (180 pupil Model C and 710 pupil Primary)
• School hostel accommodating +/-80 pupils
• One small Christian (ACE) private school with ± 15 pupils
• 3 Nursery Schools
• Old age home (nominally integrated) accommodating ± 40
• Sports stadium
• Golf course
• Caravan park
• Mortuary

2.2 BIOPHYSICAL FEATURES



2.2.1 Rainfall

The Laingsburg municipal area is situated in a transitionary rainfall region. The southern areas
receive winter rainfall (250 – 300 mm per year, the central region (Moordenaars Karoo)
receives less than 100 mm per year and these rainfall “events” may occur in either winter or
summer. Fortunately, the composition of the vegetation allows for some growth days in
reaction to either summer or winter rainfall. The northern region, also known as the Koup in
local vernacular, receives predominately summer rainfall, but the rainfall is very low (150 mm
per year). There are several mountain ranges in the district, and at altitude, annual rainfall may
be as high as 700 mm per year. In addition, snow occurs on the mountains. As a result, there
is subterranean water available in the lower lying areas.

2.2.2 Watersheds

Three watersheds occur in the region. The Matjiesfontein watershed diverts most of the winter
rainfall away from the Laingsburg municipal demarcation. The little rainfall that does occur in
the summer rainfall region is diverted by the Dwyka watershed and flows out of the district via
the Dwyka River. Fortunately, the rainfall in several of the high altitude regions, flows through
the district via the Vleilands, Buffels and Baviaans rivers.

2.2.3 Altitude

Altitude in the region varies from approximately 750 to 1500 m amsl. As a result, the winter
temperatures are low.

2.2.4 Soils

The underlying geology is primarily sedimentary. The sandstones giving rise to sandy soils of
low inherent fertility and the finer particle shales resulting in soils of higher clay content.
Unfortunately, the severity and nature of the 1981 flood resulted in most of the fine particle,
fertile alluvial soils in the immediate vicinity of the town being eroded and deposited further
downstream. Therefore, more than 20 years after the event there are still negative
consequences for urban agriculture in Laingsburg.

2.2.5 Vegetation

The vegetation (Karoo veld) is sparse and does not carry much nutrients, and results in an
average carrying capacity of 10 ha per one sheep.


RAPID REVIEW OF DESIGNATED VULNERABLE AREAS IN THE WESTERN C... Page 10 of 72

2.3 SOCIO – DEMOGRAPHIC FEATURES

2.3.1 Profile of the population

Based on the 1:5 door – to – door household survey conducted by the CSIR, Laingsburg has a
population of about 4457 people, excluding those individuals who reside on the surrounding
farms (falling within the boundaries of the town). This figure compares favourably with the 1996
Census estimation, which estimated the towns population at 3654. Statistics South Africa
(1996) estimated the population of the magisterial district to be 5913, including Matjiesfontein,
with a population of 140.

Laingsburg Population

2007
Females
2450 Males

The previous graph indicates the relative numbers of males versus females in the town. As can
be seen, 45% of the towns population is male, and 55% female. This unequal gender
distribution is normal for rural areas, where economically active males tend to leave the town
for long periods in search of work in the big cities.

From the graph below, it can be seen that nearly 47% of the towns population fall outside of
the prime economically active population segment (18 to 50). This situation places immense
pressure on the (employed) economically active.



The population of the town is not equally distributed within its boundaries, and the highest
concentration of people is located in Goldnerville, an area covering only 15% of the town’s total
surface area, but housing 54% of its people. The graph below provides a breakdown of the
population according to the four main parts of town.

Suburb population distribution

327
425
Goldnerville
Bergsig
Oudorp
2427
1278 Nuwedorp

2.3.2 Health Status

Access to health care facilities and adequate nutrition in Laingsburg is a major problem, as
nearly 20% of the towns population is either physically or mentally challenged, or suffering
from chronic illnesses. This places immense pressure on the 8 nurses and one doctor who
work at the 22 - bed hospital in the town. A primary health care clinic operates from the
hospital, and treats some 2000 patients each month. The clinic staff also visits the outlying
areas, where they see an additional 60 persons every two weeks. It should however be noted
that health care is merely one of the determinants of health, along with housing, sanitation and
access to safe drinking water. Fortunately the level of service provision in the town is of a high
standard, and most families have access to, albeit crowded, formal housing.

Laingsburg has no chemist or pharmacy, which increases the cost of treatment for patients, as
they have to visit the only doctor in town to secure prescriptions for medication.

Given that 883 of the 4457 people in the town are over the age of 50, the incidences of chronic
high blood pressure, diabetes and other ailments associated with elderly people are relatively
high.

The following graph compares the number of chronically ill versus the total population. In this
graph, P/MC refers to physically or mentally challenged persons, and CI refers to Chronically ill
persons.



Challenged persons

Healthy
Population
705 P/M C
194 CI

3558

A further cause of concern in Laingsburg is the current high levels of malnutrition and
inadequate eating patterns of the poorer people, particularly the residents of Bergsig, who on
average only eat protein two days per week. This supports information provided by the clinic,
indicating a high level of treatment for malnourished children. The graph below provides a very
vivid picture of the nutritional shortcomings in the diets of the poorer segments of the
population. It also indicates that Carbohydrates are the staple foods of the town.

In the following graph, and subsequent references to the abbreviations, GV refers to
Goldnerville, BS to Bergsig, OD to Oudorp, and ND to Nuwedorp.

Laingsburg Suburb Nutrition

Average
8
Days per week

GV
6 BS
4 OD
2 ND
0
d
o
n

g

it
ie

u

a
rb

Ve

Fr

Tr
ot

Ca
Pr

The Laingsburg Clinic is short staffed and requires an additional Primary Health Care
Provider. The Sister in charge of nutrition is willing to be trained for this position but the funds
are not available. There are a number of cases of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) being
treated at the clinic, an unfortunate consequence of the high level of alcohol abuse in the
town.



2.3.3 Literacy Levels

The graph below indicates that whilst most of the town’s adult population is literate, there are
still several hundred adults who are not literate. In this report, literate refers to persons beyond
the age of 16 years who (by their own definition) are able to read and write. Even though the
survey did not explore the competency levels of those individuals who identified themselves as
being literate, some of the stakeholders visited indicated that the overall level of education is
extremely low, and most people are probably only able to do basic reading and writing.

Adult Literacy levels

2000

1500
Total
1000
Literate
500

0
Adult Females Adult Males

Formal Education

• Primary and Secondary Schooling The town has two public schools,
with a combined total of 890 pupils, and a small private Christian school
with only 15 pupils. The secondary school has a hostel, which
accommodates +- 80 pupils. Cold drinks and sandwiches are provided
daily for the Grade 1 – 5 pupils. Generally, education levels of the
townsfolk are very low, as only 7.7% of the adult population has formal
secondary schooling. In addition, only about 100 people have any form of
tertiary education. The high school has a high attrition rate, with increasing
numbers of pupils not completing their secondary schooling.



600
Number Female
400
Male
200
0
Primary Tertiary
Level completed

• Tertiary Education. The town has no tertiary educational institutions, nor
any institutions filling a tertiary education function.

No (local) bursaries or scholarships (from the Local Authorities or other (local) sources) exist
at present for promising students to study further. There are also no incentives for these
young people to bring their skills back to Laingsburg on completion of their studies.

Informal Education

• Day-care/crèche/pre-primary schooling. Goldnerville has a nursery
school with 79 pupils, and 5 staff members (3 of whom are teachers). The
school is funded by the WCED and a grant from the Dept. of Social
Services. Children here receive three meals daily.
• ABET programmes. Notwithstanding the fact that nearly 50% of the
townsfolk are illiterate, the majority of whom are adults, no formal or
informal ABET programmes are being conducted by any institutions in
Laingsburg.

There is a lack of Basic Life Skills Training, including alcohol and drug abuse counselling,
coping skills, financial planning (budgeting and saving money earned), and dealing with
sexual harassment and HIV/AIDS education and prevention strategies. These are all issues
which urgently need to be addressed, although no government departments or other
institutions (e.g. NGOs) are currently providing these services.

Very few extramural activities are on offer to keep the youth of the town occupied and to
broaden their minds. What activities there are, are run through the High School for their pupils
thereby excluding those that do not pursue secondary education.

There are no programmes in place to encourage the training and employment of women.
Such programmes would not only improve the self-image of women and contribute to birth
control, but financially independent women may be able to leave abusive environments.

2.3.4 Social Assistance and Welfare Grant Beneficiaries

2.3.4.1 Introduction

A unique feature of the income patterns of Laingsburg is the high level of households living off
social and welfare grants. From the graph below it can be seen that only 745 people receive a
wage, compared with the 1511 that receive some form of social/welfare assistance.



Income type

Other
Income Source

UIF
Pension
Social Grants
Remittances
Wages

0 200 400 600 800

Number of households

2.3.4.2 Municipal Grants
About 562 households receive the Municipal Services Equitable Share Grant (MSES Grant)
each month, which ranges from R85 to R96, depending on the perceived level of need within
each household.

2.3.4.3 Government Pensions
220 Individuals of qualifying age receive Old Age Pensions of R620 per month from the
Government. For many households, including those with individuals of an economically active
age, this represents the only form of household income.

2.3.4.4 Disability Grants
282 people receive these grants.

2.3.4.5 Foster –Care Grants
22 Individuals receive a monthly foster – care grant of R450.

2.3.4.6 Child Support Grants
407 young mothers receive a monthly grant of R100. It is reported that teenage girls see the
child support grant as an incentive to have a child, as it increases their potential income by
R100 per month.

2.3.4.7 Civil Pensions
About 14 people receive Civil pensions or other forms of company pensions.



2.3.4.8 Care Dependency Grants
Four persons receive a monthly Care Dependency grant of R620.



2.4 ECONOMIC FEATURES

2.4.1 Introduction

As stated in the introduction to Laingsburg, the town was originally established as a service
station to the surrounding agricultural areas, as well as the railways. Unfortunately, both
sectors have been in decline over the past few years, and together with changing
communication patterns, is resulting in decreasing use of the town as a regional centre.

There are only a handful of formal businesses in the town, none of which are organised into
any formal Chamber of Commerce. The main town has four bottle stores and only two food
shops (OK and a Superette). The other businesses include a general dealer, Pep stores and a
butcher. There is no Pharmacy. In general shopping is very limited, and many of the wealthier
residents shop in other towns such as Worcester and Beaufort West.

There are two banks – Standard and ABSA (which has an auto teller). Two white owned micro
lending agencies operate in the town, and charge between 13 & 30% interest (per month!).
There are two hotels and at least one guesthouse.

Goldnerville and Bergsig have a few mobile & home shops, as well as a number of Shebeens,
reportedly 25 in Goldnerville, and 9 in Matjiesfontein (where there are 28 houses in total).

Agriculture remains the dominant economic activity, and consists mainly of extensive small
stock grazing (Dorper and Döhne Merino sheep). The district produces an estimated 80 000
sheep carcases per annum. Approximately 50% of this annual yield is marketed and
processed outside the district. A small amount of wool is still produced in Laingsburg district.

Dorper Döhne Merino

• Sheep Farming: As stated earlier, most carcasses are sent away to Maitland; Beaufort
West & Ceres as there are only 2 small abattoirs in the vicinity. As a result, no skins are
processed locally. Due to the poor vegetation, farms are extensive and have a low
sheep population density. Wool production is not a priority, but wool is also sent away.



Dorper is the main type, but some merino are also found. Angora is probably also suited to the
area.
• Fruit Farming: There is a 50 km stretch in the Vleiland area SW of the town, which
gets water from the Floriskraal Dam, as well as a 20 km stretch north (Moordenaars
Karoo) of the town. These are the traditional fruit farming areas, which produce
apricots, peaches and plums. Due to poor infrastructure, the fruit is damaged in
transport, so most is dried on the local farms. Some grapes are produced, and sent to
de Doorns for processing.
• Seed Farming. For the past 6 years, the above area is also being increasingly utilised
for seed production on a contract basis for a European Co who supply the feedstock
and technology. Main products are onions, chard, pumpkin & beetroot.

Work is very scarce, only at the garages, hotels and on the farms. Farm work is seasonal and
low paid R 70 –R130 per week. It is furthermore difficult to break into this work, as most
farmers use the same workers each year. People travel as far as Tulbagh to look for work in
the fruit season.

2.4.2 Employment And Unemployment

As stated earlier, employment opportunities are extremely scarce, and limited to the garages,
hotels, farms and the few other small businesses located in the town. The limited businesses
and declining economic activities consequently results in a high unemployment rate (37%),
which is double the provincial average of 19%.

Unemployment

37%
Employed
Unemployed
63%

It should furthermore be noted that employment opportunities appear to be skewed in favour of
males, as can be gleaned from the following graphs, 34% of males are unemployed, as
opposed to 39% of females.



34%
Male Employed
Male Unemployed
66%

Female Unemployment

Female Employed
39%
Female Unemployed

61%

From the graph below it can also be seen that the level of self-employment is almost non-
existent, indicating a very low capacity of the people to generate employment opportunities for
themselves.

Employment FE – Female
Employed
FSE –
600 Female self –
500 employed
FUE - female
400 unemployed
ME – Male
300 employed
MSE – Male
200
self employed
100 MUE – Male
unemployed
0
FE FSE FUE ME MSE MUE
Category

It should also be noted that for the sake of this study, it was resolved that only people receiving
a monetary remuneration would be considered as being employed. All others, e.g. Housewives
would be considered as unemployed. The graph above does however distort the employment



situation somewhat, as can be seen in the graphs below. These graphs indicate that only
about half the employed people are employed on a full-time basis. Seasonal and part-time
work together account for nearly half of all employment, and indicate that incomes are not as
high as they would have been should people have been employed on a full-time basis.

Female Employment

FS
18%

FFT

FFT FPT
52% FS
FPT
30%

In both these graphs, FFT refers to Females Full time employed, FPT refers to females part-
time employed and FS refers to Females seasonally employed. The same definitions apply to
males, where the M replaces the F.

M ale Employment

MS
18%
MFT
MPT

MFT MS
MPT 54%
28%

2.4.3 Income Levels

Income levels in the town vary considerably, with some families earning below R250 per
month, and others earning above R5000. Statistically, Bergsig is the poorest part of town,
where the average income is only R687.84 per household per month. In Goldnerville, the
average monthly household income is R876.49, and this compares with R1623.15 in Oudorp,
and R1508.68 in Nuwedorp. The graph below provides a breakdown of the residents income
based on selected categories.



%residents in income group

60.0

50.0

40.0 Goldnerville
Bergsig
30.0
Oudorp
20.0 Nuwedorp
10.0

0.0
R 250 R 500 R1 R2 R3 R5 R
000 000 500 000 5000+

A further breakdown of the income distribution in the town reveals that 66% of the town’s
population earn below R1000 per month.

Income Distribution
250
5000
250 500
4%
5000+ 1000
3500 9%
6% 2000
4% 500
15% 3500
2000
5000
25%
1000 5000+
37%

2.4.4 Consumption Patterns

Another way of assessing the poverty in Laingsburg is reviewing the income expenditure
patterns of the local residents. With 67% of the towns population earning below R1000 per
month, expenditure is largely based on the purchasing of basic foodstuffs and payment for
municipal services. The next graph provides a breakdown of expenditure per residential area
to the expenditure type of the residents. As can be seen, very few households have any
disposable income for recreation or savings once the costs of food and services have been
deducted from their income.



1400
1200

Expenditure
1000
800
600 Ave
400 GV
200
BS
0
ng OD

e

g

er
t
eb
in
yl
ND

th
vi

st

av

D
Li

O
fe

S
ic

Li
as
B

From the following graph, it can be seen that on average, households spend about 70% of
their income on basic living expenses, which in this instance is nearly entirely attributable to
food and municipal services. The rate of payment for municipal services in the town is high.

Very few people have any kind of formal savings (mainly bank and endowment policies). Only
4% of households currently save any money.

Expenditure Patterns

11%
Basic Living
4% 2%
Lifestyle
12%
Saving
71% Debt
Other

2.4.5 Commentary

As indicated by the Poverty and Inequality Report, extreme inequality can be a major obstacle
to development within a community/society. Such is the case in Laingsburg, where one
individual owns most of the most profitable (and biggest) businesses in the town. In addition,
land ownership patters are also highly skewed in favour of specific individuals. This limits the
potential of other residents to effectively participate in entrepreneurial initiatives and the
broader local economy. It further limits the proper functioning of a local market economy,
resulting in market failure, albeit it, at a local level.

As a key stakeholder in local development processes, the Local Authority and government



needs to create scope for a freeing up of the resources of the town (natural, institutional,
economic and other), to at least create some possibilities for the participation of a larger
number of people in the economic affairs of the town.

As can be seen from the graph on Types of Employment in the town, there is an extremely low
level of Self Employment and personal income generating activities taking place. This needs to
be addressed as a matter of urgency, as the people themselves will have to play a bigger and
more direct role in initiating and implementing local economic development interventions in
their town.



2.5 CREATING COMMUNITY ASSETS: INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY

2.5.1 Introduction

Laingsburg is in the very fortunate position that much of the town’s “engineering” infrastructural
needs have already been met, or programmes are currently being implemented to ensure that
these services, such as water reticulation, sanitation, electricity supply and refuse removal will
be supplied within the foreseeable future.

2.5.2 Water Provision

All residential erven and sites have access to at least one water point per site. Water is of a
good quality, and managed and monitored by the local municipality.

2.5.3 Sanitation

All sites have access to waterborne sanitation. All other forms of sanitation (e.g. VIP - latrines
and buckets) in both coloured areas, viz. Bergsig and Goldnerville, have been converted to
flush toilets.

2.5.4 Electricity Supply

Eskom, through the Municipality is the supplier of electricity, and all households have access
to electricity.

2.5.5 Housing

Over the past five years, 317 houses have been built in Laingsburg. Nearly all these houses
have been funded through the Housing Capital subsidy scheme of the national department of
housing. The town still plans to build another 450 low-income houses over the next five years,
in so doing providing an asset to many of the poorest residents of the town.

2.5.6 Streets And Stormwater

Most of the streets in the Ou- and Nuwe-dorp are tarred, together with the main commercial
streets in the “business” area. Although most of the streets in Bergsig and Goldnerville are not
tarred, concrete kerbing is being installed to prevent degradation of the road surfaces and
“protection” of the sidewalks.

2.5.7 Community Facilities

As stated earlier (2.3.2) the town has a clinic and small hospital, in addition to a library, police
station and post office. A Multi-purpose community centre is currently under construction,
which could provide a venue for the delivery of various community services, such as a crèche,
frail – care services and a venue for social events.

2.5.8 Commentary

The Municipality has done an outstanding job in providing the necessary infrastructure (for
which it is responsible) to all the residents of the town, and this is evident in the high level of



services currently available.

The Municipality furthermore provides a monthly “Equitable Share Grant” to poor households,
a grant which essentially provides a R85 to R96 subsidy on services to qualifying residents.
Currently, 562 households receive this grant, which remains a vital affordability tool for
residents to have access to these basic services. Many residents would not have access to the
services currently offered (water, sanitation, refuse removal and electricity) were it not for the
“Equitable Share” Grant.

The provision of these basic services to nearly all households in Laingsburg has gone a long
way in alleviating absolute poverty in the town, and provides residents with a certain minimum
basic quality of living.

The high level of municipal services provision in the town is perhaps evident of the
Municipality’s capacity to access CMIP and other funding sources for infrastructure projects.
Whilst fulfilling a necessary function, these infrastructure projects also provide income to
residents during the construction and implementation phase. Such public works/infrastructure
projects do however often only provide short – term injections of money into the local
economy, but do not materially improve the overall level of economic sustainability of the town.

The Municipality therefore needs to start placing as much emphasis on initiating sustainable
job creation and local economic development interventions.



2.6 CREATING COMMUNITY ASSETS: SOCIO-INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

2.6.1 Introduction

Whilst the Local Authority has been good at delivering the infrastructural services for which it is
responsible, the provision of social support services at a community or household level has not
kept pace with the needs of the community. Notwithstanding the dire need for various services,
very few organisations are currently active in the town. The only agency that seems to be
active in the town is the Child and Family Welfare Society, a Dept. of Social Services
supported institution, although their work is hampered by lack of space, support and interest.

The following community forums/committees have been formed:
• Multi Purpose Centre committee
• Police Forum
• Health committee

There are small offices of both the ANC and the DA in town, although the feeling is that neither
are very effective. The ANC Women’s League is also very active in the area of HIV
counselling.

From the graph below it can be seen that membership and participation in church/religious
structures is very high, and highlights the potential role that the church could play in driving
and supporting development initiatives in the town.

%participation in Community Structures

100.0
90.0
80.0
70.0
Goldnerville
60.0
Bergsig
50.0
Oudorp
40.0
30.0 Nuwedorp
20.0
10.0
0.0
H
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LU
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.W
.C

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.F

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S

A major point of concern in the town is the large number of shebeens. According to the latest
police figures, there are seventy-three shebeens in the town. The police are by all accounts, at
present, unable to deal effectively with this issue. There is no system of regulation or means



of controlling the quantity of alcohol sold or to whom it is sold.

2.6.2 List Of Institutions And Roles

Dept. of Agriculture The department has two representatives (one clerk and an
extension officer) in town who provide information and support to
farmers in the area. Limited impact – mainly for white farmers.
Dept. of Social Services The department has one full-time social worker (Ms Snyders) who
deals with many of the day-to-day complaints and social issues
troubling residents. She is supported by a second social worker
(who although based in Beaufort West), handles all court – related
social cases. From September 2001 to March 2002 there were 67
new cases added to their existing case load of 257.
Police Forum Responsible for initiating the first “Community Garden”, the
Forum maintains an interest in broader community – development
initiatives.
Child & Family Welfare Soc. Two people are currently employed by this organization. They
have 6 projects on the go at the moment. These are "Die
Karoolelies" (club for aged); Reach Out (an HIV/AIDS awareness
and prevention project); Alcohol and Drug abuse prevention project;
Sewing project; Pre-primary school ("die Donald Duck
kleuterskool"); Youth project ("om die jeug lewensvaardighede te
leer"). They have many people that volunteer their time and
services for many of the projects, and reach between 300 and 400
people through these projects.
Alcoholics Anonymous Provides support to alcoholics and their families. Limited impact,
not really active in prevention programmes.
Sisters Bond A women’s group in Goldnerville that provides support to the
needy.
Local ANC office Provides information to the community and caters mainly for the
Coloured Community. Very limited impact.
Local DA Office Provides information to the community and caters mainly for the
White Community. Very limited impact.
ANC Women’s League Provides a soup kitchen and sandwiches for the aged.
School Governing Body addresses school related problems, mainly complaints about
school fees and uniforms. Limited to learners, their parents and
staff of the respective schools.
Churches & Church Groups There are 6 churches in town. The potential impact of the
churches and church groups is enormous, although the churches
do not appear to be very active in the community, and do not
appear to have any significant projects currently in implementation.

3. MOST VULNERABLE GROUPS

3.1 Introduction

From the information gathered in Laingsburg, it is very difficult to assess who the most
vulnerable groups are. Poverty is widespread, and not limited to any specific part of town, or
racial group. As far as the accumulation of assets is concerned, the distribution of wealth is



highly skewed in favour of the White residents, although this should be viewed against the fact
that current income levels across the town remains low. As can be seen from 2.3.4, there are
households of both the Oudorp (36%) and Nuwedorp (21%) who live off a monthly income of
less than R1000 per month.

Based on age and income as well as economic and social vulnerability, the following
vulnerable groups have been identified:

3.2 Children Younger Than Seven Years Old

In a community with many single, unemployed mothers, the basic nutrition and health care
needs of young children is often not adequately addressed. Inadequate nutrition and
upbringing results in impaired mental and physical growth and development of the child,
resulting in further problems being experienced later in life. There are 683 children under the
age of seven living in Laingsburg, representing 15% of the total population of the town.

Children are exposed to domestic and “community” violence, physical and mental abuse,
especially in households where alcohol and drugs are being over - consumed. Children are
also often left alone or in the care of relatively unknown people when their parents go to work
or in search of work. This increases their risk to sexual and physical abuse, both of which are
reported in Laingsburg. Children are entirely dependent on others for the provision of their
basic needs, making them probably the most vulnerable population group.

Mothers of these children receive a R100 State grant, and it is reported that this often serves
as an incentive to young girls to have children. The mothers also have access to “free” health
care at the local clinic and hospital, where it is possible to receive support for malnourished
and sick children.

3.3 Old Age Pensioners

Nearly all the households headed by elderly people receiving government pensions have no
other forms of income, and are consequently only receiving the R620 income per month. In
addition, many have very low levels of education, and in the case of the aged in Goldnerville
and Bergsig, are illiterate and poorly skilled. This further exacerbates their vulnerability, as they
are unable to secure worthy employment (should such opportunities be available).
Furthermore, many of those who are chronically ill or disabled have difficulties accessing
health care and other essential facilities, due to impaired mobility, which is exacerbated by a
lack of public transport in the town. Given that there are 391 (9%) people over the age of
65years, many of who suffer chronic illnesses, this group is particularly dependent on social
and welfare services and support.

3.4 Children Aged Eight To Sixteen Years

There are nearly 800 children in Laingsburg who fall into this “school-going” category. Neither
the children, nor their parents receive any direct welfare support from the State. Many of the
young who are subjected to high levels of poverty often resort to begging and crime.

3.5 Physically And Mentally Challenged People

Two hundred and eighty two government Disability Grants are paid out by the State in
Laingsburg. There are no formal support programmes or structures for disabled persons, even



though 5.6% of the population is physically and/or mentally challenged. Many of these people,
nearly all of who are unemployed, only receive the R620 disability grant.

3.6 Female-Headed Households

Within Laingsburg, males are more likely to find employment (53%) than females (50%). In
addition, males often receive higher wages for the same work, than females do. Furthermore,
unemployed females with dependents are more vulnerable than unemployed females without
dependents, both of whom are more vulnerable than employed females with and without
dependents. According to the South Cape District Municipality, 29.19% of households are
headed by females.

3.7 Male Headed Households

Even though males appear more likely than females to secure employment in Laingsburg
(2.3.3) incomes in the town are low for both men and women. In addition, it should be noted
that both unemployed males and female who have dependents, are more vulnerable than
unemployed males and females without dependents.



4. DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND OTHER PROJECTS

4.1 Introduction

The draft IDP has been completed, and has the potential to truly involve all residents in the
“participatory planning process to achieve future goals b.m.o the integration
of sectoral strategies to realize the optimal allocation of scarce resources in
an orderly, manageable and sensible manner, for the purpose of
sustainable development, equity and empowerment of all residents.”

Once established, the IDP Forum could play a leading role in facilitating different social and
economic development interventions in the town. Given that the purpose of the IDP process is
to alleviate and eradicate poverty, strengthen the local economy, create sustainable
employment opportunities and expand the reconstruction and development process in the
town, the IDP Forum should take on this leading role in driving the various social and
development processes in Laingsburg.

Laingsburg is in the fortunate position that Council maintains a positive bank balance, as well
as a fund for any “disasters” that may occur in the future. The Municipality also has an
ambitious project list, and hopes to secure funding from external sources, particular other
government departments to pay for those priority projects.

The IDP lays the foundation for all development planning and prioritisation in the town, and
guided by the towns vision and mission statement, seeks to steer the town towards an
equitable and sustainable future. The town has close links with the Central Karoo District
Municipality, as well as the District’s PIMMS initiatives. This bodes well for positioning of the
town with one of its biggest stakeholders.

Whilst many of the initiatives identified in the IDP go a long way in identifying what should be
done to support socio-economic development, few concrete plans or initiatives are identified
that will realise the dreams and vision of the townsfolk.

4.2 National Government

Various programmes initiated by the National Government but being implemented through
Provincial Government departments are currently in implementation across the province; these
include the Integrated Sustainable Rural Development Programme (ISRDP) and the
Consolidated Municipal Infrastructure Programme (CMIP). Projects funded by these
programmes, but being implemented through the relevant provincial government departments
are reflected in section 2.8.3.



4.3 Provincial Government

4.3.1 Health

The Western Cape’s Department of Health is currently in the process of renovating and
extending the buildings at the local hospital, but does not (at this stage) appear to have made
any provision for additional nursing staff for the hospital. Whilst the extra facilities will benefit
the community, one of the highest needs of the community is extra staff, as people have to
wait very long for help. This project will not have any job creation or poverty relief impact, as
the workers needed for the building work will be the currently employed staff of the Provincial
Department of Public Works.

4.3.2 Education

The Department of Education does not have any projects planned for Laingsburg.

4.3.3 Housing

The Department of Housing intends to construct an additional 450 “RDP” houses in Bergsig
over the next three years. One hundred units are budgeted for the 2002/3 financial year, and
an additional 270 houses in 2003 and 2004.

4.3.4 Planning and Local Government

The provincial Department of Planning and Local Government acts as a conduit through which
funding from the treasury is channelled into local authorities for “Transformation” and other
special capacity building programmes. CMIP funding is currently being used for the upgrading
of the oxidation ponds (R152 000), Water pipeline rehabilitation (R47 000) and roads and
storm water upgrading (R1.3 million).

4.3.5 Transport and Public Works

Notwithstanding the fact that Laingsburg has a high need for a Rapid Response Unit to deal
with the high level of accidents within 20km of the town, apparently neither the Department of
Transport nor the local authority have any plans for the provision of said services within the
next three years.

4.3.6 Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture has an extension office with two staff members located in
Laingsburg. The extension officers provide technical support as well as information to farmers
in and around Laingsburg.

4.3.7 Economic Development and Tourism

The Department of Economic Development and Tourism does not have any projects planned
for Laingsburg.



4.3.8 Social Services and Poverty Alleviation

The Provincial Department of Social Services is responsible for the funding and
implementation of the Multi Purpose Community Hall (in Bergsig). It has budgetary
responsibility for the payment of the various social grants paid to eligible residents, and funds
the two social workers who operate in the town. In addition, the department also provides
financial support to the Child and Family Welfare Society, the Karoo Lelies club for the aged,
the local crèche in Goldnerville as well as the Old Age Home in the Oudorp.

4.3.9 Cultural Affairs and Sport

The Department of Sport and Recreation does not have any projects planned for Laingsburg.

4.3.10 Other Government Departments

No other Provincial Government departments were identified that have any plans or projects
planned for Laingsburg for the next three years.

4.4 DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY

A number of initiatives that will impact Laingsburg have been identified in the IDP of the
Central Karoo District Municipality. The Tourism Forum and Tourism Marketing Programme in
particular have the potential to increase the visibility of the town, and in so doing, encourage
more people to visit Laingsburg. This is however a medium to long – term intervention, and will
not lead to direct job creation within the short – term, or for that matter contribute to
sustainable economic growth without additional supportive interventions being undertaken.
Other initiatives such as the Flood Route (and its marketing) and the Small Farmer
Empowerment initiative do however contribute to “economic value” of the town, and need to be
supported.

4.5 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Through the IDP process, the Municipality has identified a number of projects that it has
identified as most addressing the needs of the community, and potentially improving the quality
of life of the majority of the residents. Nevertheless, it should be noted that at this stage, (June
2002), funding for only the upgrading of the street lighting and street and storm water control
has been secured. It is hoped that funding from provincial and national government
departments will be secured for the remaining projects.

4.6 OTHERS

Based on the information obtained, no other institutions were identified as planning any
projects for Laingsburg.

4.7 COMMENTARY

The Development Strategy presented in the Laingsburg IDP is based on the vision of



“advancing, increasing and maintaining the standard and quality of living of the greater
Laingsburg community”. Whilst the IDP lists ten different performance areas for achieving this
vision, it provides little concrete plans for “identifying the economic limitations and opportunities
to stimulate the local economy in a sustainable manner”.

In the opinion of the CSIR project team, the forty or so projects identified in the IDP will
certainly lead to an increase in the quality of living of the town’s residents, by improving the
engineering infrastructure in the town. It will however have very limited impact on the overall
standard of living of the town’s residents. In fact, the team has no reason to believe that the
projects identified will stop the current situation of negative economic growth and migration
from the town. There needs to be a stronger, more focused and proactive look at revitalising
the local economy of Laingsburg. The Municipality needs to invest more money, time and effort
in this function, to ensure that future infrastructure investments are not wasted on a “dying”
town.

The IDP Forum (identified in the IDP) has the potential to address all the issues raised herein
in a comprehensive and integrative manner, and all attempts to launch this local structure
needs to be encouraged as a matter of extreme urgency.



5. DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT INTERVENTIONS: SOCIAL

5.1 INTRODUCTION

It is noted that the success of most “economic” interventions recommended herein depend on
parallel “social” processes taking place. Laingsburg is a town heavily influenced by a culture of
alcohol and drug abuse, symptomatic of a sub-economic environment. According to some local
stakeholders, a “Culture of Poverty” is entrenched in the minds of many residents, and there
appears to be a philosophy that the Government grants are enough to live on and there is no
point to working.

Unless these social ills can be treated simultaneously with the implementation of any of the
recommended projects and interventions, little will change. The Laingsburg Community needs
to proactively engage development, reject alcohol and drug abuse and those who sell those
products, and instead embrace gainful employment and its resulting rewards. The fractured
social environment must be mended and residents need to agree on common goals and be
prepared to work together to achieve those goals.

5.2 YOUNG CHILDREN

One of the key challenges facing young children, particularly those in the pre-school going
years, is the high level of malnourishment. This is partly attributed to the lack of knowledge of
parents, particularly young mothers about basic nutrition, but primarily a result of an inability of
parents to buy food. Interventions are required that will improve the basic nutrition of children,
to prevent any long-term damage to their personal and physical development.

5.3 OLD AGE PENSIONERS

There is a need in the predominantly coloured “suburbs”, for a facility for the aged.
The town only has one old age home, which according to the local residents, caters mainly for
the white community. Pensioners who live with their children often find their pensions being
used as the only source of income in the household. In many instances, children also steal
some of their parents money. Given the governments latest policies in dealing with the aged, it
is recommended that a frail care centre or similar amenity providing basic services to the aged
be established. Another major problem experienced by the aged and frail is a lack of access to
the limited facilities available in Laingsburg. A subsidised taxi service would solve this problem.

5.4 DISABLED PERSONS

Disabled persons find it very difficult to seek and secure gainful employment, not only because
employment opportunities themselves are limited, but also because of potential employers
attitudes towards physically and mentally challenged persons. There are no support structures
in Laingsburg for this group, and disabled people often have to secure the help of church
members, neighbours and strangers (often at great cost) to get from point A to point B. Like
the aged and frail, access to services in town is difficult and expensive, and some form of
public transportation would go a long way in dealing with this problem.

5.5 UNEMPLOYED FEMALES

Of the economically active population, unemployed females (with dependents) are probably
the most vulnerable. Job creation is really the only sustainable solution to problems



experienced here. There is however, a need for some form of support structures or groups to
be established to help women cope with the pressures of being unemployed and without
income.

5.6 UNEMPLOYED MALES

Notwithstanding the fact that unemployed males are probably less vulnerable than some of the
other groups identified, it should not distract one from the fact that wages throughout the area
are very low, and all unemployed people are vulnerable to poverty. Even employed people
often do not have the means to sustain themselves and their families. Economic growth and
job creation represents the only real tool for breaking the cycle of poverty.

All strategies that therefore seek to create jobs, improve the nutrition of the poor, deliver
services such as water, sanitation and electricity will therefore contribute to addressing the
most basic needs of the poor.

5.7 RECOMMENDATIONS

Within Laingsburg, religion and politics play a leading role in influencing people’s behaviour.
Both the churches and the political parties are visible in the town, although some of the
stakeholders interviewed have questioned the impact of either. Church leaders in particular are
respected for their position, and could play a vital role in driving specific development
interventions.

Based on the information gathered during the socio-institutional scan, as well as the focus
groups, the need for the following key social support interventions was identified. The list
below also includes the names of individuals who were identified by the CSIR as local
residents who could play a valuable role in implementing any of the interventions listed below.

• Training and capacity building in nutrition and child care. Any initiative of this type
could be spearheaded by Sister Jenny Duimpies of the clinic.
• Further education and training (FET). Messrs Eygelaar and Essau of the local
schools could be valuable drivers of any programme of this nature.
• Entrepreneurial skills training and development. Mr Eygelaar (High School
Principal), Mrs Myburgh (ex- community development facilitator), Inspector Augustyn
(SAPS) and Cpt. Dyantji (SAPS), especially given their experience with the community
vegetable gardens project.
• Life skills training. Rev. F Kietas has experience in dealing with youth training and
development initiatives.
• The creation of a Forum for the sharing of lessons learnt and success stories
within the community, as well as between different communities. Mr B Kleinbooi of the
Laingsburg Municipality could play a vital networking and relationship building role in
this regard.
• Special Youth Enrichment and Development programmes for local residents. Rev
F Kietas (Roman Catholic Church).
• Incentive schemes for encouraging further learning. Mr Gouws (the mayor), Mr
Essau and Mr Eygelaar.
• The creation of an “Awards and Recognition Scheme” within the town to honour and
praise outstanding individuals and groups. Mr Williams (the mayor).
• Establishment of a nutrition supplementation programme (vegetable gardens). Cpt.



Dyantji (SAPS) and Sister J Duimpies (clinic).
• Training and capacity building associated with alcohol and drug abuse. Rev. E April,
Rev. F Kietas, Sister Duimpies.
• Construction of a trauma centre (at the police station). Cpt. Dyantji (SAPS).

5.8 HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY

Household Food Security can be simply stated as “the right of all households to the right food
for a life with dignity”. It is generally accepted that this requires the continuous availability of
food, the accessibility of this food by the household and a conducive household and
community environment.

This view is included in the Department of Health’s Integrated Nutrition Programme
(http://www.doh.gov.za/programmes/nutrition-f.html) which states:

“Many factors contribute to the development of malnutrition. Some direct causes of
malnutrition are disease, illness, poor health and poor/incorrect food intake. Underlying
causes of malnutrition include: a household’s inability to access food needed for a
healthy active life; poor care of members of the household, particularly mothers and
children; an unhealthy environment; and poor access to clean water”

There is much literature available on this complex subject – a good starting place is probably
the United Nations’ document entitled “System-Wide Guidance on Household Food Security
and Nutrition” published in October 2000, that contains the figure below
(http://www.ids.ac.uk/poverty_hunger/Guidance-Final.pdf).

This indicates the complexity of the issues and allows the impact of the proposals contained in
this report to be considered and to understand constraints on poverty alleviation.

Many of the proposals are focussed on improving purchasing power so as to improve access
to the food that is widely available in Laingsburg (see second column of figure). The first phase
of the vegetable garden proposal focuses by giving direct access to nutritious fruit and
vegetables for families at risk of malnutrition. The infrastructure proposals are aimed at
improving purchasing power while improving the overall environment.



The figure above also indicates all the other issues that need to be in place e.g. the socio-
economic and political environment, health and sanitation and care practices. A particular
concern is the care practices, where the Participlan indicated overall community problems as
well as substance abuse that would clearly impact here. Just as nutrition will not improve, the
proposals addressing poverty in this report will fail if these constrains are not addressed

On the other hand Health and Sanitation is well addresses with all houses having piped water
and waterborne sanitation and some of the proposals will improve on food safety and quality
and nutritional aspects of healthcare.

5.9 PROPOSED INTERVENTIONS

The following interventions represent the opinion of the CSIR Domain Specialists, who visited
Laingsburg, and the short overviews of each intervention are intended to provide interested
stakeholders with sufficient information to consider further studies or pilot implementation of
the proposals presented.



PROPOSAL 1

ESTABLISHMENT OF VEGETABLE AND FRUIT TREE GARDENS

Background

Vegetable gardens have been used throughout South Africa as development vehicles for both
the rural and urban poor since the late eighties. These gardens were originally (mainly in the
drought of the late eighties) established to improve the nutrition of poor families. These
gardens often succeeded when success was measured as the improved intake of vegetables
by the household.

Later community gardens were established to allow the individual users the opportunity to
generate income. When evaluated against this objective, these gardens have been much less
successful and there have been few long - term (more than 3 seasons sustainable operation)
successes. The main cause of this is that projects have been set up with groups/individuals
with low commercial capacity and poor infrastructure. Under these circumstances, the gardens
were unable to generate sufficient income from sales to cover all the input costs (e.g. pumping
energy, maintenance seeds, fertiliser) required to run the garden, and have subsequently
fallen into disarray.

The food garden established in Laingsburg is an example or a garden that failed. Information
collected during the Rapid Review was conflicting, including non-representativity, theft,
vandalism and market limitations. These reasons need to be confirmed, unpacked and
addressed as the first phase of any centralised garden in Laingsburg.

The flagship project in Beaufort West gives further background on the constraints on the
establishment of vegetable gardens. In this case, the garden was established with 40 of the
most needy women in the town and aimed at income generation with the objective of attaining
financial sustainability. The project has been through many changes and adjustments and is
still not sustainable although it now employs less than ten people and has expanded into
chickens and other products, and is strongly supported with “grant” funds and inputs. The
Department of Health currently coordinates the projects and has a case study that any future
projects should be built on.

In addition to these nearby examples, much experience and literature is available. The best
practices therein should be integrated into the design of any intervention to ensure that failures
common to many garden projects do not occur in Laingsburg. It must be noted that this may
result in projects that are not financially sustainable without some grant input.

In South Africa the Limpopo Province has considerable experience in the establishment of
community vegetable gardens for both nutrition and income generation. Ms Marjorie Mongwe
the Deputy Director of Nutritional Services in the Northern Province Department of Health (015
291 2798) is currently completing a study on this which will be available on request.

A recent in depth review of food-based interventions by the International Food Policy Research
Institute stated that:

“This review shows that increasing the availability of foods rich in vitamin A and
iron by encouraging households to tend home gardens and to raise small
animals and fish is a popular approach. Increasingly, the food-based strategies



combine a variety of intervention components. A key to success appears to be
the inclusion of a strong nutrition education and behaviour change intervention.
For example, strategies to promote increased production of micronutrient-rich
foods are more effective when combined with a nutrition education intervention,
which ensures that increased household food supply and income translates into
improved dietary quality. Proper processing and storage of plant products, in
order to retain vitamins and minerals and to extend the time when fruits and
vegetables are available—through drying, for example—are other ways to boost
consumption of essential nutrients year-round.”

Marie T. Ruel; Can Food-Based Strategies Help Reduce Vitamin A and Iron
Deficiencies?; International Food Policy Research Institute; Washington, D.C.;
December 2001;

and provides reference to the original information.

The Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) has large amounts of information on household
gardens e.g. Agriculture, food and nutrition for Africa - A resource book for teachers of
agriculture; Food and Nutrition Division; Food And Agriculture Organization Of The United
Nations; Rome; 1997 and should be consulted in intervention design.

Justification

There is both land and water available for significant production of a range of vegetables and
fruit. Implementation could involve the establishment of a range of solutions that provide
appropriate community members with opportunities for improving their nutrition, as well as their
income (albeit to a lesser extent).

It is proposed that the production of vegetables and fruit is introduced in a phased process that
results in a range of opportunities being created for the townsfolk. This phased approach will
be of a developmental nature, and recommends a development path for people as the markets
for the vegetables and fruit change.

The existing gardens established by the Food Garden Foundation could form the basis of a
nutrition based household intervention. Currently there appears to be an opportunity for an
extension of the growing season, which is currently limited. Vegetable production will be
reviewed from a horticultural viewpoint and a set of products developed with the Department of
Health’s nutritional input that will maximise food availability to the household. An area of
approximately 10 m2 per household is recommended for the production of vegetables,
excluding any staple food production, for nutrition supplementation.

Should this “first phase” be successful, a second phase could be initiated, in which people with
proven capacity could focus on replacing vegetables supplied into Laingsburg. The local needs
will be evaluated and plans developed to produce as much as possible of the currently
“imported” vegetables. This would most likely be through the establishment of larger gardens
where jobs would be created on a much larger scale. These larger gardens will require
preparation, fencing, and provision of a water supply. According to the Department of Public
Works they should be sized to provide a minimum of 2 square meters per person and would
cost of approximately R25 000 per hectare to establish. It should be noted that this data is
totally dependent on what part of the family’s food needs are to be produced and the location



of the garden.

With gardens operating successfully, there will be an opportunity to identify and supply higher
value markets with more unique products such as herbs and speciality vegetables.

Additionally, should markets justify it; there is an opportunity to introduce improved production
technologies such as shaded gardens, tunnel and hydroponics. On the product - side there is
the potential of organic production.

The introduction of vegetable production will allow Laingsburg to supply its own needs for
vegetables and to progressively grow into additional and higher value markets. The gardening
system will also supply a significant part of the raw materials for the small-scale production of
processed foods.

Key Requirements

LAND
It should be noted that the figures below depend on what is to be grown and are given as
indicators. It is in fact critical to develop the garden design from the bottom up rather than
implementing an outside design. A bottom up design would evaluate the nutrition needs and
convert these to a production need, which would define the amount of land required for
implementation.

In the household phase, the houses of Laingsburg have sufficient ground (say a maximum of
20 square meters per household) to produce significant quantities of nutritious vegetables for
targeted households.

The currently disused community vegetable garden would provide a starting place for
developments of “market gardens” in Laingsburg. As success is achieved, there is room for
some expansion of the garden but a plan should be put in place to identify further land, which
should be easily available.

WATER
Water supply does not appear to be a limiting factor in Laingsburg, and it should be easy to
secure a reliable and cost effective supply.

OTHER INPUTS
On going inputs for household gardens are basically seedlings and aftercare as all labour,
water and materials for composting are available in the household..

Commercial gardens will need to generate income to pay for all their input costs including
seeds, water, labour, packaging,

Very little technical skills will be required to establish a project of this nature at household
Phase 1 level. Training and on-going support could however be provided very easily by
extension officers of the Dept. of Agriculture, or local farmers.

In the commercial level there will be a significantly increased demand for real entrepreneurial



skills particularly in the marketing and logistics areas.

This project requires considerable local support to ensure success.

The Beaufort West Dept. of Health office has written a case study on this type of project, and
has reflected much of the requirements for successful implementation.

FINANCE
Funding will be required for the start-up of these vegetable gardens.

For commercial gardens, other organisations active in this field estimate the costs to be in the
order of R 25 000 per ha (see justification).

Impact

The introduction of vegetable production as a poverty relief project will allow Laingsburg’s
women to supply their children’s nutritional needs for vegetables and to progressively grow
their skills and capacity to enter into additional and higher value markets. Should the project be
focussed on malnourished households only, indications are that in the order of 75 families
could benefit in Laingsburg

Initially the vegetable gardens will improve household nutrition and wealth by freeing income to
be used for purposes other than food. In the later phases there will be increasing job creation
which could reach 10 “full time” jobs / 2000m2 assuming that sufficiently good markets can be
established.

Beneficiaries

It is proposed that the household project is mainly run by the women of Laingsburg because of
their commitment to the nutrition status and development of their children. This type of project
should only be implemented where private household ownership models are employed.

The commercial gardens need to be run by skilled entrepreneurs although it is proposed that
the women of Laingsburg become shareholders and are supplied with produce for their
nutritional needs.



PROPOSAL 2

FISH – BASED FOODS AND FEEDS

Background

A lack of protein intake in the diets of the poor is common throughout the world. Protein intake
along with sufficient carbohydrates and the necessary micronutrients is the basis for the
healthy development of children.

In many parts of the world, fish although a potential sources of proteins in diet, is seldom a
major part of a child’s diet. This is particularly true in South Africa, especially in the interior.
However, in the East fish, including freshwater fish, forms a much larger part of the diet.

The Floriskraal dam, some 20 km from Laingsburg, is a potential source of freshwater fish,
probably barbel, which has the potential to improve nutrition as well as create job
opportunities. However, it is important to realise that consumption of freshwater fish is not
normal and that it should not be imposed as a solution but rather offered as an opportunity.

The first step of any utilisation of the resource is the evaluation of the fish population and
potential of the Floriskraal dam. The next phase in the utilisation of the resource would be
based on supplying fish, cooking and nutrition information to households at risk, to combat
malnutrition.

To further utilise the fish it is proposed that the production of fish meal be introduced to form
the basis of a sustainable business, which would then develop local markets by using novel
processing technologies and international markets where there is an established demand for
specialised barbel products e.g. smoked barbel in Holland

Justification

The Floriskraal dam is potentially one of the largest agribusiness resources in the area and
has the potential to support nutrition programmes leveraging government’s spending on
malnutrition and to create income and jobs both as part of the nutrition intervention and within
a sustainable business.

Key Requirements

The key requirement of the proposal is for the community of Laingsburg to gain the right to the
fish in the dam. Thereafter the requirements focus on the fishing and processing.

FISHING EQUIPMENT

There is a definite need for equipment probably boats and nets to fish the dam. This will be
defined by the resource survey.

COLD STORAGE & PROCESSING EQUIPMENT

Cold storage both at the dam and in Laingsburg will be required throughout the project. Once



processing is started, a processing plant will be required.

Fishmeal production is expensive as pressure processing and drying is involved. While small
scale packaged plants are available in Europe it will probably be necessary to consider local
manufacture because of their high cost. Since this will form the basis of the enterprise, a
financially sustainable operation is vital and an early feasibility study is recommended.

The production of novel fish products will require a processing plant but, assuming that all
operations can be manual, a reasonably priced plant is possible. To process around 500 kg of
fish using freezing and smoking would require a capital investment in the order of R 300 000.
The processing of significantly more fish and the introduction of blast freezing and canning and
pasteurisation would require significantly higher capital

LAND

Land will be required for the housing of the boats and fishing equipment as well as the
processing plant or a cold store if the processing plant is sited in the town where better
services are available. However, the area would be small nothing larger than a standard
commercial site being necessary – no more than a total of half a hectare will be required.

OTHER INPUTS

Normal food processing inputs will be required both for fish dressing and processing.


Training in household fish preparation and nutrition, fishing, processing and enterprise
management will need to be built into the various phases of the project.

FINANCE

The first funding required would be for a survey of the fish resource and a report on its capacity
and harvesting mechanisms.

Impact

The impact in terms of improved nutrition and job creation will be determined by the magnitude
of the resource. An evaluation of this should, therefore, be a first step in any project.

Beneficiaries

Households and in particular the under twelve year olds at risk of malnourishment will benefit
from subsidised access to high protein food. In the under 12 group the long-term effect can be
very large avoiding stunting and retarded development.

In the commercial phase, jobs will be created for local workers and an entrepreneurial
opportunity will be created.



6. DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT INTERVENTIONS: ECONOMIC

6.1 INTRODUCTION

Job creation and growing the local economy of the town was identified as the two highest
priorities to address poverty in all its forms. Through these interventions, it is hoped that food
insecurity and the other manifestations of poverty would be effectively addressed.

It must also be noted that without economic opportunities, higher education and skills levels,
and better health will not eradicate poverty or inequality. Nevertheless, sectors such as
education, health, welfare and police alleviate poverty by increasing well being and
productivity, and equity demands that the poor have greater access to social services.

Whilst the previous section (2.9) dealt with social interventions, this section of the document
lists a number of economically sustainable projects that have been assessed by the CSIR to
have a high potential for success, should the necessary support structures, capacity and
resources be provided. It is followed by an Opportunities Grid, which lists and ranks all the
projects identified by the project team, and assesses their relative impact against specific
criteria identified by the PAWC.

Eradicating poverty and inequality and the meeting of basic needs are primary (but not the
only) goals of the government. To make a significant impact on poverty, government needs to
break the forces that perpetuate a vicious circle of poverty at one extreme, whilst encouraging
income, wealth and opportunities to be amassed at the other. For many of the projects
presented hereafter to be successful, grant funding will be required for the set – up costs, as
well as some of the learning and capacity building (at community level). Given the limited
capacity within the target communities, ongoing mentoring and support will be required to
develop the ability and capacity of the target communities to implement these projects after the
initial start-up phases.

6.2 PROPOSED INTERVENTIONS

The study has called on the CSIR Domain Specialists to identify potential projects and
entrepreneurial interventions. It focuses on agribusiness, but the principles apply to all areas.

Methodology

There are three ways in which agribusiness opportunities can be identified, namely in
response to:

information on agricultural or indigenous crop availability

Basing agribusiness on a resource-based approach is simple and focussed, as
the agricultural and natural resources are defined and known.

However, once the introduction of new agricultural products is considered the
picture becomes more difficult because of the large number of possibilities. See
for example the "Labour Intensive Agriculture" study by Carstens, SANCRA the
Southern African New Crop Research Association, the “Forgotten Plant Series”
by BOSTID that focuses on opportunities beyond simple commercial viability.


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