Socioeconomic Implications of the Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy on Beneficiaries in Mahikeng, South Africa

Abstract The Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy (PLAS) was introduced to purchase land from white farmers and redistribute it to disadvantaged black farmers. Laudable as the scheme was in redressing historical injustice for marginalized people, the reality on the ground is a complicated story where ongoing socioeconomic difficulties may compromise the intended benefits. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the roles of the Department of Rural Development (DRD) in PLAS and assess the extent to which the beneficiaries of the scheme have used farmland with appreciable yields to enhance their social and economic wellbeing. A qualitative research approach with a case study design was employed to collect relevant data from the literature, public authorities and PLAS beneficiaries. The study revealed that the PLAS scheme unlocked land access for black populations, increased farm produce, alleviated hunger, created jobs, reduced poverty, promoted local economic development, and improved living standards despite minor glitches. The glitches included persistent paternalistic governance structures, poor economic empowerment and inadequate support services. Thus, it was concluded that PLAS beneficiaries could assist in achieving food security given the right environment and support. The study recommended that the government should scale up efforts to facilitate land access for disadvantaged groups and support them through increased awareness, training, and financial assistance. Future studies might consider using cost-benefit analysis to measure the relative cost in monetary terms from the scheme’s inception and compare it with the benefits of the PLAS scheme.