Shale Gas Development in the Central Karoo – Agriculture

Agriculture is an important contributor to the regional economy. The total Gross Farm Income (GFI) of the region is just over five billion rand (R 5006 million). The agricultural sector in the study area provides a direct source of income for about 38 000 people. Considering the average size of families in the study area of approximately 4.5 persons, this translates to supporting the livelihoods of around 133 000 people.