Dry Farming among the San in the Central Kalahari

Abstract

In this paper, dry farming among the San is analyzed with the emphasis on farming techniques, methods of land use, agricultural management and the distribution of agricultural products. In 1993, fields were made at 40 locations in Xade extending 20 km from the central settlement. The size of the fields ranged from less than 10 ares to more than 100 ares. The land use includes conbined of cultivation of watermelon, cowpea and maize. There are 10 varieties of cultivated watermelon grown for the fruit, and 3 varieties for the seeds. Due to the distribution system for watermelons among the San, it is impossible for farmers to become rich from a good harvest.