COVID-19 supply chain disruptions: opportunities for business growth created by the pandemic for young farmers in Orange Farm in South Africa

ABSTRACT

This paper provides an early evaluation of the experiences of young farmers (ages 20-35 years) from Orange Farm in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic periodfrom March 2020-January 2021. COVID-19 disrupted supply chains severely and this affected the traditional customer base of many young farmers due to travel restrictions. Using a qualitative approach, this paper discusses the lived experiences of young farmers during the periodic COVID19 induced lockdowns. Despite the many challenges brought about by COVID19, it also brought with it opportunities for growth and increased incomefor the young farmers. The study findings showed that the lockdown imposed on South Africa to curb the spread of COVID-19 were somewhat a blessing in disguise for young farmers who were able to capitalize on the supply chain disruptions and grab a significant local market share for their produce due to community members' restricted movement. Operating within the confines of their community, young farmers managed to bridge the gaps in local food supply chain. Young farmers also turned to e-commerce as people minimizedphysical contact and practiced social distancing. These developments are expected to have a lasting impact on young farmers' business operations and there are far reaching policy implications emanating from this study.