Connecting transport, agriculture and rural development: Experiences from Mhlontlo local municipality integrated infrastructure atlas

Abstract

This paper establishes the connection between transport, agriculture and rural development. The paper achieves this purpose by drawing from the experiences of the Mhlontlo municipality integrated infrastructure atlas project. The connection between transport, agriculture and rural development is described and explained in two related ways. Firstly, a comprehensive analysis of the current socio-economic development situation in Mhlontlo municipality is outlined. Secondly, a rapid situational analysis of the transport, agricultural and basic rural infrastructure requirements is conducted. In addition, emphasis is placed on linking the infrastructural requirements to Asgisa-Eastern Cape's rural development initiatives. This bi-cameral approach provided a basis for projecting the transport and agriculture infrastructure profile in the study area. Major recommendations revolving around projecting and spatial mapping of infrastructure requirements (including transport) to support integrated rural development strengthen agricultural transformation, food security alongside the desired spatial form and land uses of the Mhlontlo Local Municipality are advanced.