Enhancing Rural Livelihoods and Empowering Youth Through Agripreneurship: An Analysis of the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme in QwaQwa, Free State, South Africa

Abstract

Agricultural production has long been a cornerstone of livelihoods in rural areas, providing essential resources and economic stability to communities worldwide. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role of agriculture as a sustainable livelihood strategy for youth in these regions, especially in Africa, where the youth make up most of the population. This paper explores the impact of agricultural projects under the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP) on improving the livelihoods of rural communities and empowering youth in Qwaqwa (Phuthaditjhaba), Free State. It investigates the programme’s impact on youth skills development, access to resources, and entrepreneurial opportunities, as well as identifying opportunities and challenges youth face within the context of the CRDP. This paper followed a case study design with a qualitative approach to describe, compare, evaluate, and identify patterns or cause-and-effect relationships between the various variables. Findings indicate that most CRDP-trained youths use their skills for household purposes, and some become job creators. However, there is also evidence that the trainees need additional support to increase production and market participation. The paper recommends that youth in rural and peri-urban areas require further interventions from governmental and non-governmental agencies to support strategies for increased production and job creation, which will, in turn, improve their livelihoods to meet the SDGs.