Local institutional innovation and pro-poor agricultural growth; The case of small-woolgrower's associations in South-Africa

South Africa is characterised by a highly dual economy. During the Apartheid policy, parts of the society were restricted from access to markets, infrastructure and education. This has resulted in pockets of poverty that are in many respects comparable to other developing regions in Africa. The eradiction of poverty and economic development in the previously disadvantaged areas are high on the political agenda of South Africa. The papers in this monograph explore the opportunities for households to increase income trough increased commercialisation of agricultural products. It demonstrates how institutional innovation and local trading associations can contribute to economic development in poor rural areas.