Abstract

Thaba Nchu is small town in the Free State province of South Africa which forms part of the only Metropolitan Municipality in the province. This small town is part of the three towns that form the heart of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality. Given the 10th September 2015 declaration of drought disaster in the Free State province of South Africa, we found it imperative to conduct a study on the agricultural drought economic impacts on both small and large scale businesses since people living in this region are more vulnerable to those in Bloemfontein (Free State capital). Following a study conducted by Hlalele which revealed the main source of vulnerability of Free State residents being of demographic nature. The aim of the study was to alert government authorities of the prevailing conditions of drought impacts for possible drought relief assistance. We used quantitative methods in the study where survey questionnaires were used in the data collection. The study revealed a high impact of drought in this region with over 80% of the businesses both formal and informal having lost over 50% of employees and revenue.

Keywords: Drought; Disaster; Hazard; Vulnerability