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Group Cohesion for Enhanced Operation of Agricultural Community-Based Projects in Gauteng Province, South Africa

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Listed:
  • B. Taruvinga
  • P. Ndou
  • C. P. du Plooy
  • K. Mphafi
  • I. N. Hlerema
  • R. Seturumane

Abstract

Collective operation of smallholder farmers and cooperatives has been attributed to many mishaps and malfunctions. Such knowledge creates misperceptions regarding agricultural cooperatives and their usefulness in development. This study investigated member commitment, group cohesion and membership retention in agricultural production cooperatives. The main aim was to identify possible practical measures for enhanced performance and increased sustainability in farmer organizations. Data was collected from 92 participants that were currently operating as cooperative members. A combination of descriptive statistics, Perceived Cohesion (PC) and Binary Logistic Regression methods were employed for analysis. Results of the study indicate that group cohesion is influenced by trust among members, internal communication, financial performance of the cooperative, involvement of members in decision making, and role of the organization in the community. Strategies for increased group cohesion that were recommended in the study include information sharing and transparency at all levels of operation, and collective decision making and planning in organizations.

Suggested Citation

  • B. Taruvinga & P. Ndou & C. P. du Plooy & K. Mphafi & I. N. Hlerema & R. Seturumane, 2024. "Group Cohesion for Enhanced Operation of Agricultural Community-Based Projects in Gauteng Province, South Africa," Journal of Agricultural Science, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 13(5), pages 161-161, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:jasjnl:v:13:y:2024:i:5:p:161
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ito, Junichi & Bao, Zongshun & Su, Qun, 2012. "Distributional effects of agricultural cooperatives in China: Exclusion of smallholders and potential gains on participation," Food Policy, Elsevier, vol. 37(6), pages 700-709.
    2. Barraud-Didier, Valérie & Henninger, Marie-Christine & El Akremi, Assâad, 2012. "The Relationship Between Members’ Trust and Participation in the Governance of Cooperatives: The Role of Organizational Commitment," International Food and Agribusiness Management Review, International Food and Agribusiness Management Association, vol. 15(1), pages 1-24, February.
    3. Bridget Taruvinga & Portia Ndou & Igenecious Nicholas Hlerema & Thetshelesani Lesly Maraganedzha & Christian Philippus Du Plooy & Sonja Venter, 2017. "Fostering linking social capital for successful agricultural development projects in South Africa," Agrekon, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 56(1), pages 28-39, January.
    4. Kindie GETNET & Tsegaye ANULLO, 2012. "Agricultural Cooperatives And Rural Livelihoods: Evidence From Ethiopia," Annals of Public and Cooperative Economics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 83(2), pages 181-198, June.
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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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