The contribution of subsistence farming to food security in South Africa

The main aim of this paper is to discuss the contribution of availability of, and access to, improved farm inputs for subsistence/smallholder farmers to improving household food production, and hence food security. This will feed into consideration of the broader questions concerning possible policy interventions to mitigate against the impacts of increased food prices for both the rural and urban poor. It is expected that increased subsistence production will reduce dependence on market purchases and improve the availability of food for the most vulnerable households. The paper will also contribute towards the development of the most likely scenarios to enhance sustainable food security through the subsistence production of food, and estimate the likely costs involved in ensuring food security and sustainable livelihoods.