| Abstract: | Progressive small‐scale farmers tend to be in the younger age groups, have a relatively high level of education and knowledge of farming, adopt modern technology, have a higher level of managerial aptitude, more progressive attitudes towards farming, larger farm holdings and more implements. They also enjoy a relatively high standard of living and socio‐economic status, participate in organisations and have greater contact with information sources. Findings show variables explaining farming progressiveness and are a multi‐variant cause/effect phenomenon. Many of the important socio‐psychological and economic factors influencing farming progressiveness are easily amenable to manipulation and can be considerably influenced by well planned agricultural and rural development strategies. |
