Low Income Farm Households: Incidence, Characteristics and Policies

This study was commissioned to review farm income support policy with a view to targeting resources at low income farm households. It sets out to analyze trends in farm household income, in particular, the nature and extent of low income farm households. It also aims to assess the factors underlying the emergence of the low income farm households and the effectiveness of farm income and general welfare policies in countering the lack of viability of the sector. In addition, it aims to outline possible reforms which would target public resources towards low income farm households, in light of Agenda 2000, the National Anti-Poverty Strategy, the Rural Development White Paper and other relevant policy initiatives.