Capital Penetration and the Peasantry in Southern and Eastern Africa: Neoliberal Restructuring

The book explores how neoliberalism has impacted peasant agriculture in Southern and Eastern Africa, deepening extroverted production for capitalist accumulation and negatively affecting rural labor, small-scale landowners, and food security. It presents empirical evidence through twelve case studies from seven countries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 237 pages
Publication date: 12 February 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the profound impact of neoliberalism on peasant agriculture as a vital livelihood strategy in Southern and Eastern Africa, particularly in the context of the ongoing development crisis and the critical crossroads that the region faces. Through a systematic analysis, it sheds light on how the neoliberal architecture has intensified extroverted production, driven solely by capitalist accumulation, at the expense of the rural labor force and small-scale and communal landowners. Moreover, the book explores the devastating consequences of neoliberal policies on food security, highlighting various ways in which they have undermined this essential aspect of human well-being.

The book presents empirical evidence through a series of twelve case studies, derived from extensive original fieldwork conducted in seven countries within the Southern and Eastern African region. These case studies provide a rich and detailed account of the experiences and struggles of peasant communities as they navigate the complex terrain of agrarian neoliberal restructuring.

By examining the multifaceted effects of neoliberalism on peasant agriculture, this book offers valuable insights for scholars and researchers in economics, sociology, anthropology, history, agrarian studies, and political science. It serves as a crucial resource for practitioners and policy-makers who are seeking to understand the nuances and complexities of the agrarian landscape and develop effective strategies to address the challenges faced by the peasantry in Southern Africa.

In conclusion, this book is a vital contribution to the ongoing discourse on the impact of neoliberalism on rural societies. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by peasant communities in Southern and Eastern Africa, and offers valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners working to promote sustainable and equitable development in the region.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030898267
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022