Agriculture and Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Agrarian Change in Libya

This document is a second-year report on agriculture and sustainable development, focusing on a case study of agrarian change in Libya. It includes an introduction, literature review, research methodology, and primary findings. The document explores the importance of agricultural development in Libya, the impact of agriculture on economic indicators, and the significance of sustainable farming. It also discusses the challenges and limitations of the research study.

Second Year Report
Agriculture and Sustainable Development
A case study of Agrarian change in Libya
PhD in Economics by:
Contents
1.Introduction..................................................................................................................................... 2

1.1. Introduction to the chapter.......................................................................................... 2
1.2. Background of the research study.............................................................................2
2. Literature review……………………………………………………………………………………..
2.1. Importance of Agricultural Development in Libya.............................................4
2.2. Agricultural development............................................................................................. 5
2.3. Agriculture and economic indicators.......................................................................8
2.4. Agricultural policies in developing and oil-rich developing countries....10
3.1 Research aim...................................................................................................................... 9
3.2. Research objectives......................................................................................................... 9
3.3. Research questions....................................................................................................... 10
4. Research methodology................................................................................................ 10
5. Significance and relevance of the research study.............................................14
6. primary finding…………………………………………………………………………………21
7. Possible contribution………………………………………………………………...………32
8. Research limitations…………………………………………………………………...……..32
9. Research plan……………………………………………………………………………. ..…33
10. References ...................................................................................................................... 34
1. Introduction
1.1. Introduction
The major themes of this proposed research study are presented in this chapter. The
central theme of this study is sustainable agricultural production. The research
context, the problem statement, the research purpose, the priorities, the research
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questions, scope, significance and value, an introduction to the methodology, and the
proposed report structure are the main areas outlined here.
1.2. Background of the research study
Salak (2006) underlined the early presence of the agricultural economy in Libya.
After the discovery of its oil fields in the 1950s, the oil and gas based economy in
Libya was established. The warm climate in the country has produced favourable
conditions for agricultural purposes. Cattle and crops served as the main economic
activities, in turn affecting and shaping the society, as per historical documents. In
addition, Salak (2006) noted that Tripolitania was one of the most important in
Roman times. Because it was the one of the major cities that produced and exported
olive oil. Further, it was a city centre of exchanging ivory and wild animals.
Since the 1960s, the rise in oil production has led to a decline in agricultural
operations and the share of national income in agriculture. GDP for agriculture was
estimated in 1958 30% and employed more than 70% of labour force. (2013)
Masauda.
Some of the Libyan government's policies were designed to promote efficient land
use; these include agricultural wage policies and reforms affecting landlords who are
absent. From Mousa (2014). During the 1980s, construction policies included the
sourcing of other countries' water supplies and aquifers. During this period, credit was
issued by the Libyan Agricultural Bank, ensuring a proportion of the population's
continued involvement in the agricultural sector.
The Libyan economy currently relies heavily on oil output revenues. As a result of the
higher profit margins obtained from oil exports, most of the other economic activities
(such as agricultural activities) which prevailed before 1950 (Ahmed 2005) have been
reduced. However, the high profitability of the production of oil brings great financial
advantages. In other words, the uplifting of the national economy and the public's
living situation and living conditions. The most significant factor is how the
Government was willing, through increased funding, to spread the oil production
income through public services in different ways.
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The World Bank (2016) stressed that 98 per cent of Libya 's state revenue comes from
activities related to oil. On the other hand, imports from foreign countries meet most
domestic needs. This massive outflow of demand needs is not currently a clear and
important issue, as international exports/beings' (excess trading) income is more than
enough to meet these needs.
The key focus of this research is the sustainability of agriculture. The viability of
agriculture in Libya will allow progress to be accomplished in a balanced manner,
with the ecology, finances, investment goals and technological growth being taken
into account. A key objective of sustainable farming is its ability to meet the needs of
the population and to enable sustainable economic productivity activities.
Another main driver for this research is economic diversification. As a growth
strategy, it would ensure that more than one prevalent income stream would move
from one single source to an ideally different market. With oil generation recognised
as an enduring economic activity, sustainable agriculture will lead to new markets and
employment in this field. Economic diversification through sustainable agriculture.
2. Literature review:
2.1 Importance of Agricultural Development in Libya
Libya became an oil-supplying nation with the discovery of oil and related energy
sources, where the economy is substantially dependent on oil supplies. The important
issue is that petroleum is a small resource. The oil supply can not last in the future,
given the limitations of the resource, at its current consumption level. Therefore, the
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current limitation of established prevailing economic activity requires a long term and
sustainable solution. The central problem is explained as a reliance on one economic
operation, petroleum production, on the entire economy. In 2012, the government's oil
sales accounted for 98 percent (World Bank 2016).
Regardless of the economic value and national generated value of the country, the
economic involvement of people and residents and the contribution of a given
individual to the national development are significant factors in the inquiry. It can not
be assumed that everyone is interested in oil-related activities. Adequate economic
structure must be developed in the country similar to what was maintained in "former
Libya," with the involvement and commitment of the majority of the population
involved. In connexion with the problem of excess dependency on restricted
economic activities will be helped in the productivity of citizens and the population of
the country (Lisa, 1984).
Ahmed (2005)'s research project on Libya's agricultural history and agricultural
potential is a worthwhile analysis exploring the 'farming potential' of Libya. Ahmed
addresses the early situation in Libya prior to discovering the oil resource in 1958. In
addition, the country's current situation with regard to environment, soil and other
primary agricultural requirements is addressed in depth. The current situation and the
potential of Libya's agriculture sector are stated by Mohammed et al. (1996). The
study summarises the crop, forestry and supply of seeds in Libya. A research paper on
the unique features of Libyan olives was conducted by Abdul (2013) and the qualities
of the olives produced in Libya subsequently noted and a possible increased
genetically engineered olive supply.
One of the factors that conditions for the significant increase in Libya's food imports
in these last two decades is the decline in agricultural production, especially during
the 'Libyan crisis.' The Organization for Food and Agriculture (FAO) is a UN
organisation that has recently provided support for farmers in Libya in 2017. The goal
was to "reinforce agricultural industry capability."
Sustainability is described as 'development that meets the needs of today without
compromises on the capacity of future generations to respond to their own needs' in
the Bruntland Report for the World Commission on the Environment and
Development, 1992. The focus of this research is on ways to meet and respond to
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sustainable agriculture and economic diversity for future generations. The change
from dependence on petroleum will inextricably benefit the population and the
economy.
As per the view point of J,A. Allan and K.S. Mclachlan, 2020, from the year 1969,
there has been a major change in the relationship between both government as well as
foreign oil companies. In context with Libya, they has part nationalised operating
companies though now many of them has become fully nationalised. It involves Shell,
Bunker Hunt, British Petroleum and many more. The exploration which was done
mainly had concern over certain areas besides Algerian border in Fezzan. The oil
which Libyan reserves are seems to be modest and make their contribution of around
only 6.02 % to Middle East and North African oil reserves.
From the above literature review I have analysed that Libya had mainly focused on
the areas of Algerian border and their oil corporation has always been modest. It was
also evaluated that in Libya the food sector got enhanced because there was
continuous support to farmers. From the above information I have learned that in
order to develop the olive supply the potential of agriculture sector need to be
developed as it would automatically increase the supply of olives in a better way.
2.2. Agricultural development
Agriculture is a dynamic, diverse term involving different farmers' practices.
(Arumapperuma 2006) emphasised that 'agriculture' applies to all agricultural science
activities including soil crop cultivation and animal rearing to produce foods and other
products. The agricultural conceptual framework is closely related to concepts such as
the environment, production and quality of land, economy and labour productivity.
The fundamental economic principles have been discussed already. Byres (2004)
stressed that smaller farms provide improved land productivity, quality and family
labour exploitation. In order to enforce the Agricultural Improvement Agenda
effectively (FAO, 2004a; World Bank, 2008; Van Donge, Henley and Lewis, 2012).
The strengthening of capacity for the country with new positions of sector-to-sector
cooperation and collaboration with both the private sector and civil society is urgent.
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Johnston and Mellor (1961) stressed that in the first phase (early 1960s) of the
Industrial Revolution agricultural production in the developing world was at peak
output. The conventional farms have been paired with the advanced technologies
leading to higher yields. Therefore, the researchers have often stressed the importance
of combining agricultural practises with modern technology based on science, so that
the best results can be achieved. One of the best examples is the new gene technology,
which can multiply productivity with the same input level. More significantly, this
higher level of output may be used for increased domestic production and even export
to other countries.
Nevertheless, Gemmell et al. (2000) stressed that the developing countries were also
strengthened by improving the farming industry through the expansion of the
industrial sector. But they have not diverted all capital to a single sector, instead
leveraging economic resources to the most productive economic sectors. The majority
of developed countries have been established in the agricultural sector. The radical
introduction of industrial goods leading to the booming economy (Huang and Rozelle
2009). However, in the process of growth, some countries, including Hong Kong and
Singapore, have focused far more on agriculture than others. The important question
in this regard is not that the manufacturing sector was not directly allocated to the
developing nations, but that efficiency was a major concern. This has been
accomplished by rising productivity in agriculture
Evidence also suggests that the non-agricultural market is having an impact on
agriculture. If a country's non-agricultural sectors grow significantly and production
levels in a national economy are strong, this can have a beneficial effect on the
agricultural sector. In the last two decades, this happened in the Chinese sense.
Chinese industry 's excellent growth has ensured the necessary capital flow into the
agricultural sector as well as the growth of the agriculture sector (Huang and Rozelle
2009).
Over the past few decades, agricultural economic production has declined. When non-
agricultural sectors are transferred by the nations, because of their higher contribution
to certain economic fields, such as income and price levels. However, the economic
growth and inclusion of the citizens in rural areas in agricultural enterprises are the
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concern of the local governments in developing countries. Economic growth and
poverty reduction are the key goals of this process.
As per the view point of Qamar, 2013, the agriculture sector is considered as the most
crucial economic department in Libya until the oil got discovered. When oil got
implemented it became the major driving force for overall economy of country while
developing the agriculture sector that ultimately result into certain food imports. The
focus is mainly on the aspect of agriculture through enhanced threats of food
insecurity. The labourers who use to live in Libya sine long period of time also left the
country because of armed crisis that created an impact on agriculture production.
As per the view point of Alazragh. 2020, the conditions of achieving food security
and agriculture have reached to the critical stage as it represent in the growing
demand for all agricultural products in relation with general as well as food items due
to which it had led to high rates of demographic growth through which the food prices
got rise in global markets and decreased importance of the agricultural sector in
context with the Libyan economic structure. There are certain aspects of Libyan food
security crisis like it analyses the causes of overall crisis due to the inability of Libyan
agricultural policies to fulfil food security. It was been determined that the situation
led to low rate of self-sufficiency for crops because of inability of agricultural policies
to achieve food security mainly the policies in order to support overall agricultural
sector in Libya.
2.3. Agriculture and economic indicators
The agricultural development and the economic development of a country are closely
associated in the developing country context. In most developing countries, the major
sector in the economy is the agricultural sector. Therefore, an overall increase in the
contribution of the sector to the economy could directly result in growth in the
economy. Furthermore, agriculture is a sector that can exist all throughout a particular
country. Resultingly, it can be expected that the benefits extend to and are accessible
to people in rural areas also. In the agricultural sector, the most prominent aspects are
labour productivity and land productivity (Ravallion and Datt, 1996). Thus, it is
significant that these two aspects are across a country instead of concentrated
accumulated in a particular area. Also, this distribution of the sector is based on the
geography and the placement of the natural resources.
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In the sense of a developing world, agricultural production and economic
development are closely related. The agricultural sector is the main economic sector
in most developing countries. An overall increase in the sector's contribution to the
economy may also directly contribute to economic growth. Agriculture is also a sector
which can occur in a given country. As a result, the benefits can also be expected to
enter people in rural areas and be available to them. Job efficiency and productivity of
the land are most important aspects of the agricultural sector (Ravallion and Datt,
1996). It is therefore critical that these two aspects are accumulated across a country
rather than in a specific region. Furthermore, this sector distribution is based on
geography and natural resource placement.
The quick growth in the other sectors of the economy while the agriculture industry
flourishes is one of the most prominent findings in literature. For example, through
growing agricultural production, the capital needed to grow the industrial sector can
be identified. However, the aim is not to completely replace agriculture, but to
consider agricultural sector as a key sector in the economy and not ignore its
importance (Wilfred & Edwige, 2004). Accordingly, it is obvious that agriculture in
the country leads to higher economic growth calculated by higher GDP, as supported
by this part of the literature.
The basic techniques, methods and reforms which could be implemented within the
agriculture sector for the achievement of specific objectives are referred to as
agricultural production. These are important when a country expects agriculture as an
important sector in the economy to improve or expand. Furthermore, agricultural
production leads to the use of economic capital to achieve particular goals (OECD
2008). Local and international growth of agriculture can also be seen. Ellis (1992)
illustrated the need for a well-planned and consistent long-term agricultural sector for
local and foreign developments. Furthermore, agricultural production is part of a
country's economic policies. In particular, if a country depends heavily on the
agricultural sector, it is a big part of the economic system.
Some important points were found according to the findings of OECD (2008). It was
emphasised that rural development has a close connexion with agricultural
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development. As described above, agricultural growth is targeted at rural areas and
improves the prospects of growth in those areas. These two problems are also closely
connected. However, this relationship can not be seen in many nations, such as the
United States of America and Australia. Nevertheless, this relationship is evident in
developed countries and some other countries like Norway.
2.4. Agricultural policies in developing and oil-rich developing countries.
The agricultural sector is a significant platform for sustainable development in
developing countries. For sustainable development goals, agriculture policies are
therefore important. In the sense of economic opportunities and poverty alleviation,
the OECD (2008) stressed that agricultural systems and related policies in
development countries are critical. The economic opportunities to participate in
productive economic activities for the majority of rural citizens in developing
countries lack. In order to provide economic opportunities for the people, the central
governments of those countries should promote the agriculture sector.
Nevertheless, the developing countries under the World Bank (2008) have some
distortions in those countries' agriculture sectors. The lack of the governments of the
respective countries' support policies could delay agricultural sector growth. Another
important problem is the lack of the infrastructure needed. The local governments of
the respective countries are also responsible for improving the infrastructure. Another
significant impediment to the growth of the sector is the absence of research and
development in the agricultural sector (Ahmed 2005). The government's direct and
indirect taxation can impede the development of the agricultural sector considerably,
as it reduces farmers ' incomes. From now on, if development in the agriculture sector
is required, it is important to reduce or avoid such direct and indirect taxation.
With regard to the Arabian region it is strikingly different and difficult to implement
agricultural policies in comparison to other regions of the world. One of the key
reasons is the lack of resources needed for agricultural production, land, water and
other natural resources. In the Arab region, for example, 87% are desert territory. No
plant cultivation can be achieved in the desert. Water supplies in combination with the
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desert are also rare. The urban population in Libya is less than 40 percent, which
suggests that there is a higher rural population. Agricultural activities still use 87% of
the available water (UNDP 2007).
.
3.1. Research aim
The aim of the research study is to critically evaluate the drawbacks of the existing
economic system in Libya, and propose a more sustainable and productive structure
based on agricultural activities, as existed in the country before the oil resource was
found.
3.2. Key objectives
 To recognize the prevailing economic policies and structure in Libya
 To critically review and evaluate pre- and post-Gaddafi policies in the
agricultural sector.
 To critically analyses and evaluate how the problems affecting the Libyan
agricultural sector impact the potential for other economic activities in the
modernization of this sector
 To critically evaluate how problems affecting the Libyan agricultural sector
impact on the mission of changing the economic structure to a sustainable
agricultural system in a higher context.
To recognize the prevailing economic policies and structure in Libya:-
Libyan economy performed very well in the year 2017 in context with oil
extraction and sale even during the period of falling prices. There was a combination
of serious internal political instability. Oil extractions in Libya have never stopped.
The production fell by 0.1 million barrels per day with a public deficit that reached
28.9 per cent of GDP but the falling inflation rate by 4.6 per cent though the
expectation was to reach 22.3 per cent by the end of the year.
To critically review and evaluate pre- and post-Gaddafi policies in the
agricultural sector.
As per the view point of Charles Harview, Libya experienced traumatic
economic consequences from long civil war that lead to destroyed part of the
infrastructure of country, halted oil production. In context with Muammar Gaddafi
rule the economic legacy was represented by costs of reconstruction. The increased oil
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revenue may also produce different consequences on the basis of non- oil trade
balance.
As per the linkage between research questions and overall literature review it was that
in earlier times the economic structure of Libya performed well but as per the current
situation the economic data is insufficient as its two main political factions regardless
of security threats, oil production problems as well as low global oil prices.
3.3. Research questions
 What is the current economic structure in Libya?
 What are the pre and post Gaddafi policies in the agricultural sector?
 How do problems affecting the Libyan agricultural sector impact the country
entering into alternative economic activities such as capital intensive
agriculture production including olive farming?
 What are the other model countries with similar social, cultural, and weather
conditions and their economic conditions?
 How do problems affecting the Libyan agricultural sector impact on the
mission of changing the economic structure in Libya?
 What ability does diversification provide for long term development method
so that you can avoid economic decline and reap sustainable boom?
For the above questions the data method which would be used is the way of secondary
research so with respect to this a literature review has been conducted on the basis of
all objectives. The data would be collected regarding the information based on
agriculture sector, economic structure of Libya. On the basis of this sample size was
chosen and in accordance with this simple random sampling was applied.
4. Research methodology
4.1 Introduction
This chapter involves a detailed outline of the research methodology through which
the study is carried out. The research philosophy guiding this study is discussed in
detail, while an outline of the research approach and research design involved in this
study then follows, highlighting the reasons behind selecting the same. Techniques of
data gathering together with the sampling technique are outlined in detail in this
chapter as well. Methods of data analysis employed in this study are then discussed in
detail, followed by an outline of the rigour of the research, considering validity and
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reliability of this study. The latter section of this chapter includes a detailed overview
of a range of ethical considerations involved in this study.
4.2 Research philosophy
A paradigm is identified as a group of principles and beliefs guiding researchers in
particular disciplines and influencing what needs to be studied, how research needs to
be carried out and the interpretation of results done (Darlington and Scott, 2002). For
instance, Cresswell (2003) argues that research approach and design are strongly
associated with the underpinning paradigm; employing qualitative approaches are
believed to imply an underpinning belief of the constructivist paradigm, whereas
employing quantitative approaches are believed to imply having beliefs concerned
with the paradigm of positivism. Arguably though, such relations are in no way fixed
(Darlington and Scott, 2002).
It is important to note that this debate on mixed methods research and mixed models
brought about the emerging theme of a third group of beliefs, which was referred to as
the paradigm of pragmatism. In this paradigm the selection of research approach is
directly linked to the research purpose and type of research questions. Arguably,
research studies are commonly multi-purpose and a technique of ‘’what works’’
facilitates researchers to engage in addressing research questions which are not
securely positioned in an entirely qualitative or quantitative research approach and
methodology (Darlington and Scott, 2002). In support of this view Guba and Lincoln
(1998) argue that in practical terms, the decision of whether quantitative or qualitative
approaches need to be taken is most often not done on the basis of philosophical
commitments, but on the beliefs of which methodology and design is most suited to
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the research purpose. While the paradigm of pragmatism is a group of beliefs as
mentioned above, which emerged as a single philosophy in response to the ‘paradigm
war’ debates and the rising of mixed methods research designs, it remains pluralist on
the basis of the refusal of forced choices between constructivism and post positivism.
In this study which aims at evaluating the drawbacks of the current economic system
in Libya and proposing a new system based on agricultural activity, considering the
epistemological perspective, authoritarian knowledge is involved through the
literature review on the topic of research, logical knowledge is involved through the
results generated by analysis of primary data gathered in this study and empirical
knowledge is perceived through findings of the research. Thereby in this study
following the paradigm of pragmatism, focus is placed on practical applied research
where different perspectives are integrated to facilitate interpreting data.
The linkage between research questions and methodology is that as per the current
economic structure in Libya it has been evaluated that there were many weaknesses
due to which a new structure got developed which was mainly based on agriculture
sector and considered authoritarian knowledge.
4.3 Research design
This research study was designed as an exploratory research study in which the
unknown would be explored through the known. Notably, this type of research design
is employed when the research topic is required to be deeply understood, particularly
since it has not been researched previously (Johnson and Christensen, 2010); this is
the case of this research study which explores how a new economic system can be
designed focusing on agricultural activities, while identifying drawbacks of the
current oil-based economic system.
Thus, the exploratory research design will be employed in this study to explore the
unknown, which is a new economic system in Libya focusing on agricultural activity,
through the known, which involves knowledge of the earlier Libyan agriculture-based
economic system prior to the discovery of oil resources, together with drawbacks of
the current oil-based economic system. Notably this exploratory research design
involves a number of advantages which include the flexibility which facilitates in
adapting to change in the course of the research, the low costs associated and the
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laying of a strong foundation for the research which leads to further research, all of
which further affirm the choice of this research design for this study.
4.4 Research approach
Through the above discussion on the research paradigm, arguably it has been
proposed by theorists that the choice of a certain research philosophy implies
engaging in a certain approach towards the research. Nevertheless, the paradigm of
pragmatism indicates that the research approach involved would be that involving
mixing of methods of data gathering and analysis in the course of the research
(Foreman and Gillett, 2013). In this context it has been observed that the quantitative
research approach has associations with the paradigm of post-positivism, and involves
in employing inquiry strategies like survey, experimentation, along with data
gathering techniques which are pre-established measures that result in numerical data.
Contrastingly, qualitative research approaches are observed to be linked with the
paradigms of interpretivism or constructivism while employing a strategy like
narrative, case study, etc and data collection techniques like interviews which result in
word-based data.
In addition to the above is the mixed method approach to research which is linked to
the paradigm of pragmatism and research strategy involving data gathering through
sequential or simultaneous manners through methods taken from both qualitative and
quantitative approaches in ways which most adequately address the research
objectives involved (Blaikie and Priest, 2017).
The mixed methods research approach necessitates a meaningful mix of methods in
gathering data, analysing data and also interpreting the results (Blaike and Priest,
2017). Arguably, the keyword ‘mixed’ signifies a vital step in this mixed methods
approach which is the linkage or integration of data at a suitable phase in the course of
the research. Notably, this meaningful integration of data facilitates researches in
seeking a more holistic view of the research environment, considering research
phenomena through various viewpoints and a diversity of lenses. This research will
utilise qualitative research methods, which will be primarily exploratory. Such an
approach allows for an evaluation of underlying attitudes and motivations regarding
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agriculture in Libya. This could provide valuable insights, and inform the scope and
factors measured in the following quantitative research (Gill and Johnson, 2002).
Relatedly, this research will utilise quantitative methods for the collection of data that
is numerical and statistical. The metrics will be designed to set the scope/explore the
issues affecting agriculture in Libya. Adopting a realistic philosophy for the research
allows for using a blended techniques method in data collection. Tashakkori and
Creswell (2007) defined this approach as “research in which the investigator collects
and analyses data, integrates the findings, and draws inferences using both
qualitative and quantitative approaches or methods in a single study or program of
inquiry’.
A useful approach for a researcher is a mixed research method because it allows a
researcher to use multiple data collection methods to improve the validity of collected
data. Denscombe (2008) stressed that using more than one method has the benefit of
presenting a fuller or greater complete picture about the problem that is being studied.
As an example, the use of questionnaires cannot provide the same depth of
information as semi-structured interviews. Therefore, researchers can integrate both
the quantitative and qualitative methods in data collection in their research, as neither
method can be solely/completed relied on (Bryman, 2008). Bryman (2006) stated that
many researchers have stressed that both quantitative and qualitative methods can be
integrated at different stages of the research process: formulation of research
questions; sampling; data collection and data analysis. Using the mixed methods
approach improves the quality of the research (Gorman and Clayton, 2005). It is also
noteworthy that this study encompasses both primary and secondary data; primary
data being data which is tailored and gathered specifically for the purpose of this
study, such data will be used for answering research questions 2,3 and 5; while
secondary data is that which has been previously gathered by other researchers, this
data will be used for answering research questions 1,4 and 6.
4.5 Data collection techniques
The survey research strategy would be considerably applied in the research, as the
situation and the circumstances need to be analysed in light of the experiences of the
people involved. Therefore, the surveys would be arranged with people who are
15

closely involved with agricultural activities. Prepared, questionnaire-based surveys
are to be executed. The archived research also serves as an important part of the
research strategy. Throughout the literature review analysis, it was apparent that
valuable research, surveys, and studies have been conducted by scholars in the field.
These are to be analysed in detail for the desired objectives of this research study.
Notably, case studies, experiments, and action research strategies are unlikely to be
applicable, as they do not align with the purpose of the study.
Following from the above, primary data would be collected from questionnaires
designed for and targeting people in the agricultural sector. It would be necessary for
the selected people in the agricultural sector to be more associated with agricultural
activities in olive cultivation, wheat cultivation, and animal growing. The data related
to the oil industry and agricultural output in the past few decades will be examined
more effectively using the secondary data collection and analysis methods.
4.6 Sampling size and strategy
Data gathering through interviews involves decision makers such as the Minister of
Agriculture, Manager of the Agriculture Bank and Director of Agriculture Research
Centre, since they are key players in the Libyan agricultural sector who make
important strategic decisions. A sample size of 198 participants who are farmers
actively engaged in agricultural activity in Libya’s key agricultural zones of west
Libya make up the target population to participate in the survey process for this study,
responding to the questionnaires which will be emailing to them. This study area has
been chosen since they are the key agricultural zones in Libya where almost all of the
major agricultural activity takes place. Notably, the sample size of 198 farmers from
these agricultural zones have been chosen considering resource and time limitations.
The sampling strategy used for choosing participants in this study involved the
probability sampling technique of random sampling. The reason for this being the
mixed methods research design where data gathered through the surveys in which this
population participates involves the quantitative research in this study, where the
research is placing more concern on making generalisations (statistical inferences);
moreover, this selected simple random sampling strategy offers the researcher the
capabilities of choosing participants for inclusion into the sample by eradicating any
sampling bias. Notably this technique of population sampling ensures that members
16

in the population are having equal chances of getting selected (Howell, 2012); in view
of this, it can be assumed that this sample is fully representative of the target
population of farmers actively engaged in agricultural activity in the key agricultural
zones across Libya. A pilot study will be carried out by distributing questionnaires to
5 farmers in west Libya which is a key agricultural zone.
4.7 Data analysis
Essentially, the data analysis would be performed by applying both quantitative and
qualitative methods. However, for analysing the primary data, both the quantitative
and the qualitative methods would be applied. The statistical method using data
analysis tools with Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS, version 22) has
been used in the analysis process and would be appropriate to analyse the quantitative
data gathered in lieu of research questions 2, 3 and 5. The qualitative data is to be
basically analysed with the technique of thematic and content analysis. In order to for
analysing and presenting the findings of the qualitative data gathered for research
questions 1,4 and 6, a thematic approach has been used. Discoveries have been sorted
into topics dependent on the research questions of this investigation and the
discoveries are displayed under each topic so as to give a useful comprehension of the
research to the reader. The technique of thematic analysis is useful for the analysis
and presentation of qualitative information grouped under various themes dependent
on the research questions (Leavy, 2015). Analysing data under the thematic approach
didn't include any software and the researcher investigated and carried out analysis of
the information in a manual manner following the six stages of the thematic approach
given below.
Figure 4.8.1: Six steps of Thematic analysis
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Source: Howell (2012)
At first the researcher acclimated himself with the information by cautiously reading
the gathered secondary data repeatedly, denoting fundamental thoughts for codes
which could depict the substance being subject to analysis. In the subsequent stage of
making initial codes, the researcher doled out different codes to the information
assembled, where noteworthy data from the accumulated information was recognized
in order to sort out the information into useful groups while also remembering the
research questions. In the subsequent stage of looking for themes, the codes were
gathered into expansive themes making sure that information inside these subjects
cohered together definitively; the next stage of this process included the researcher
assessing the themes and making sure that every code was supporting the theme. The
next step involved every one of the recognized themes being named, featuring the
substance of what each subject is about; in the last step, the findings were compiled
under the planned themes so as to meet the aim of this study.
4.8 Rigour of research - Validity and reliability
The idea of rigour in research methodology primarily concerns the precision with
which an investigation is, concerning the areas of planning, collecting information,
data analysis and presentation of findings, which influences the response of the
reader. This idea can be best depicted as an appraisal of the quality of the procedure
through which this research was conducted; by and large, increasingly dependable
research discoveries are produced through increasingly rigorous research procedures.
Quality research is distinguished to express clearly the hypothetical and
epistemological position of the researchers (Meyrick, 2006); in this investigation it
has been unmistakably expressed that the philosophy of pragmatism is the paradigm
which guides the research along with reasons for this choice, and keeping in mind that
the researcher is of African background the agricultural and oil background
knowledge is in resonance with the researcher's experience which fairly shapes the
findings of this study. Research of quality is likewise recognized to plainly express
the research objectives and aim for which a suitable determination of methodological
stance can be done (Meyrick, 2006).
18

The objectives and aim of this study has been clearly expressed in this study, while
the methodological stance too has been explicitly stated where the explanatory
research design and mixed methods research approach selected have been mentioned
along with the reasoning behind choice of the same. Moreover, the techniques of
gathering and analysis of data too have been in accordance with accomplishing the
given aim and objectives of this study. Similarly, research of good quality makes sure
to provide adequate information in relation to the chosen sampling techniques for
primary data gathering while also establishing the reasoning behind selection of the
same (Meyrick, 2006). In this study it has been detailed that the technique of
purposive sampling has been employed while also establishing the rationale for
selecting this technique. While research of quality is also considered to provide a
detailed outline of how data gathering was done; in this study, the methods how data
gathering are carried out have been mentioned while the survey questionnaire too has
been attached in the appendix.
4.9 Data storage
Whether a research study involves the gathering of new data or accessing data which
already exists, it is important for researchers to consider methods how data would be
stored, people who would be having access towards to this data, and how access
would be granted to this data (Novikov and Novikov, 2013). It is also important for all
files including soft copies stored in computers, USB sticks, etc containing identifiable
or personal data to be subject to encryption or password protection while only being
accessed by authorised research personnel since these types of data are involved in the
Data Protection Act. Notably in this study, hard copies like filled questionnaires are
kept under secure means and locked away in a lockable filing cabinet to which only
the researcher has access towards. Moreover, computer files which contain
identifiable information (such as personal data) have been securely encrypted or
password protected on the researcher’s PC and stored in accordance with the
requirements of the Data Protection Act.
4.10 Ethical Considerations
With ethics involving the principles of morality that are required to be adhered to by
people irrespective of place or time, behaving ethically constitutes engaging in the
correct actions at correct times. In the same context, ethics in research is concerned
19

with a range of moral principles which provide guidance to a researcher to conduct
and report studies which do not involve deceptive practice or intent of causing harm
to participants or societal members, intentionally or unintentionally (Springer, 2010).
Notably, it is important to ensure that research is carried out ethically since adhering
to ethical guidelines in the course of carrying out and reporting research is of
significance to ensure a study’s validity. Moreover, it helps to ensure that study
participants, society in general and also researchers are safe.
Further, ethics in a study facilitates in ensuring that it is authentic and error-free which
helps the research conducted to attract credibility and support of the public whilst
creating a degree of responsibility amidst research scholars (Novikov and Novikov,
2013). In this study, human participants are targeted for the surveys and it has
therefore been ensured to comply with principles of ethics. Before gathering data
through the survey questionnaires, participants are acknowledged about the study and
are provided necessary information about this research and the process of gathering
data through the questionnaires. It will also be made sure by the researcher that all
participants have a good understanding about the survey process and also that
participating in this would be on a voluntary basis. The ethical concerns stated below
have been given due consideration:
 Informed consent of participants has been obtained. Participants have also
been informed that it is possible to withdraw from this survey if they wish to,
and that it is possible to skip any of the questions without responding to the
same
 It has been ensured to maintain anonymity of personal identities of all
participants
 With respect to the confidentiality of data, it has been ensured to store the
filled questionnaires in a secure file. Further, data of participants have not
been shared with outsiders in order to guarantee data confidentiality. Also,
data of participants have only been associated with their participation code
numbers
20

 There has been no harm towards any of the participants as a result of
participating in this study, in the context of physical, financial, psychological
or social harm
Any possibility of psychological or physical harm towards participants has been
subject to open discussion during the process of obtaining informed consent.
Moreover, participants have been informed of the capability of withdrawing at any
point during survey data collection, and afterwards as well within a given timeframe,
in case they are feeling distressed or uncomfortable
In order to ensure the well-being and protection of participants, numerous steps have
been taken such as obtaining informed consent, avoidance of deceptive practice,
participants given the rights of withdrawal at any point, and maintenance of
anonymity.
5. Significance and relevance of the research study
The research study shows that the Libyan economy depends heavily on petroleum
production, export and the revenue from that source. The country would be seriously
in difficulty to solve the problems emerging in the foreseeable case that sufficient oil
and gas reserves are no longer available.
Moreover, the background research on Libya revealed that it was an agricultural
country that produced wheat, bovine herbal medicines, and olive oil before
discovering the oil resource in Libya. The country's soil, environmental conditions
and the associated type of the economic structure are very favourable for the
agricultural activities. At that time, it wasn't an agricultural country, but the citizens of
Libya could produce and distribute resources in order to satisfy their needs. But the
economic conditions in Libya have improved / changed dramatically by now. The
planet is heading to a more technical age in particular. Nonetheless, the value of
quality of life and demand for farm products have not disappeared. Clearly, most of
the countries in the world which previously operated primarily in agriculture now
shift to other fields, such as technological and industrial production.
21

As per the simple fact, it has been analysed that if there would not be sufficient oil
and gas reserves then there would be lot of problems but the difference got arise while
doing the analysis there overall economy was mainly dependent on the production of
petroleum and also certain level of exports. In context with the research analysis been
done it was determined that the country which used to produce wheat and olive oil it
was the agriculture sector even before oil got developed in Libya. In terms of the
simple fact it was analysed that earlier there was not the agriculture sector that
produced the products but they were the people of Libya only that produced all kind
of products.
As a result, demand will be large for agricultural products. Food is distinctive, not like
oil or technology. If people in the world population have no access to something to
eat, they will die. The evidentness of the following assertion doesn't hide. Thus, the
restructuring and production of conventional farming systems and methods will
advantage the country at different levels, as the current oil reserves in Libya are
declining gradually.
In accordance with the fact it was evaluated that food has always been distinctive
rather than oil so if citizens would not get than they will ultimately die but as per the
research the country would be received a benefit with respect to all production that is
happening in farming systems.
Firstly, for those who were interested previously, conventional farming techniques,
practises and structures disappeared. Most research studies show that agriculture in
Libya has declined for decades and that the current small-scale farmer operations
include only small gangs in villages (Abdul 2013). However, several countries
worldwide are able to use Libya 's knowledge of farming technologies and systems,
which must however be adapted to the climate of Libya. In specific countries such as
Kenya, farming systems with the same environmental factors have grown further
(Anderson 2013). On the other hand, there are no grounds of concern for agricultural
products' future markets. The production can be used for household consumption in
the first step. The excess production could eventually be used for foreign trade.
Research on Libyan farm products and markets has highlighted that some agricultural
products, such as olive oil, are in great demand in Libya.
On the other hand, the finding of possible alternatives to the prevailing social and
political problems in Libya is a significant part of this research. With the not well
22

controlled sovereign capital, the economy of a country will deteriorate fully. Libya is
among the best examples. The safety conditions were worrying in the country around
2016. The unemployment rate in 2016 was 19.22%, and from 1991 to 2016 it
averaged 19.14% (World Bank 2016). The unemployment rate is considerably higher
and most civil problems emerge from unemployment. Via unemployment in previous
decades, the young generation had access to the resources and money needed. It is
clear that these one-way fund movements weakened the youth generation and led to
guns and narcotics being smuggled, promoted or proliferated. However, if an
agricultural system is implemented in the country, the young generation might
participate in contributing, participatory, useful, precious economic activity that can
contribute to a reduction of life stress and better social results in the young generation.
6.0 Data presentation and analysis
6.1 Introduction
Following the research methodology detailed in the earlier parts of the report and
gathering of data done in accordance with the stated methodology, this chapter presents
and analyses the gathered qualitative and quantitative data. The qualitative data gathered
to answer research questions 1,4 and 6 stated earlier in this report will be analysed
through certain relevant themes established in accordance with the research objectives of
this study. These themes broadly involve an investigation of the current economic
structure and policies in Libya; a comparison and contrast of the agricultural policies and
economic conditions of other Arab countries with similar social, cultural, and weather
conditions; and the ability of diversification, as a long-term development method, to
change sectoral overburden and move towards a sustainable Libyan agricultural
economy. In addition, the quantitative data gathered through the participants stated in
the methodology chapter above too will be analysed to answer research questions 2,3
and 5 as stated earlier. This determines the pre and post-Gaddafi policies in the Libyan
agricultural sector, analyses how problems affecting the Libyan agricultural sector
impact the country’s economic diversification, and also evaluates how problems
affecting the Libyan agricultural sector impact on changing the economic structure in
Libya
23

From the above information the linkage has been analysed in the form of different
policies of Libya and the comparison between all those policies as well as economic
conditions . For both pre and post Gaddafi policy the quantitative method got
implemented in order to evaluate how it actually affected the agriculture sector of Libya.
6.2 The current economic structure and policies in Libya
The Libyan economy is identified to currently have primary dependence on revenue
from the petroleum sector, accounting for over 95% of earnings from exports and 60% of
GDP (Hvidt, 2013); such oil revenues coupled with a relatively small population has
helped Libya to be one of the African nations having the highest nominal GDP per capita
in Africa. Nevertheless, it must be noted that less than one-tenth of the Libyan labour
force is employed in the oil and gas sector which draws almost all of this country’s
export earnings (El-Hag and El-Shazly, 2012). During the rule of Ghaddafi, the
government involved in exerting strong control over the Libyan economy; while the
petroleum industry became nationalised in the early 1970s, most of the other industries
and utilities were run by industrial organisations and state trade unions. In order to
reduce Libya’s major dependence on oil resources, economic policy placed emphasis on
industrial and agricultural development. Arguably though with the decline in oil revenue
during the 1980s, planned developments were subject to consistent revision and delay.
In view of this, domestic reforms aimed at liberalising economic policy and encouraging
private enterprises commenced in the late 1980s, continuing to the 21st century.
Figure 6.2.1: Libya main economic indicators (2017-2021 estimated)
Source: World Economic Outlook IMF (2020)
24

While the share of agriculture in the Libyan economy currently remains negligible and
accounts for 1.3% of GDP as of 2017 (World Economic Outlook IMF, 2020), it employs
only 7.7% of the Libyan workforce; contrastingly with the petrochemical industry
currently being the backbone of the Libyan economy, it employs over 26% of the active
labour force as illustrated in figure 6.2.2 below.
Figure 6.2.2: Breakdown of economic activity in Libya by sector
Source: World Economic Outlook IMF (2020)
Gaddafi agricultural policies approach
Through 1973-1985 the Libyan agricultural sector under Gaddafi’s rule is identified to
have had a group of agricultural programmes and plans shaped in the form of medium
term plans, with an initial three year plan followed by two consecutive five year plans
(Wiig and Klostad, 2011). As identified from questionnaire participant responses, these
plans were established upon a number of objectives:
 Enhancing the agricultural production to a high proportion adequate for self-
sufficiency
 Achieving the optimal economic exploitation of natural resources (like water)
 Fostering training of people, supporting agricultural research and marketing facilities
giving attention to the sector’s organisational sector and human component
 Linking industry with agricultural production, working towards manufacturing
agricultural products so that imports could be replaced
 Providing jobs and enhancing stability of agricultural areas, developing agriculture in
village regions and increasing income of farmers
Assessing how Libya’s agricultural GDP evolved at constant and current prices, the
agricultural GDP value at current prices is observed to grow from around 60 M.LYD to
25

around 342 M.LYD through 1973-1985, with the average growth rate estimated to be
17% at current prices; with the agricultural GDP at constant prices growing from 475
M.LYD to around 962 M.LYD through the same period, the estimated average growth is
observed to be 8.2% (Khaled, 2015). Moreover, during the period after the liberalization
in 1986, agricultural planning changed course from 3-5-year plans to yearly plans,
resulting from fluctuating oil prices and policies being worked out in accordance with
budgets of transformation as elaborated in the earlier section. During this period under
Gaddafi’s rule too, there was a remarkable development achieved in growth of
agricultural GDP as illustrated in figure 7.3.4 below. At current prices the agricultural
GDP grew from around 384 M.LYD to 1434 M.LYD through 1986-2007, with an
estimated average growth of 7.4%; at constant prices the agricultural GDP grew from
around 1047 M.LYD to around 1374 M.LYD through 1986-2007 with an estimated
average growth of 2.1% (Khaled, 2015). Therefore, it can be argued that the Gaddafi
agricultural policies have indeed been effective as they have accomplished the key
objectives of the strategic plans underpinning them which involved increasing
agriculture sector growth rate while ensuring its enhanced contribution to GDP.
Figure 6.3.3: Libya’s agricultural GDP (1973-1985)
Source: Khaled (2015)
26

Figure 6.3.4: Libya’s agricultural GDP post-liberalisation (1986-2007)
Source: Khaled (2015)
6.4 Problems affecting the Libyan agricultural sector and how this affects economic
diversification
6.4.1 Key issues affecting Libya’s agriculture sector
Political and instability issues
As gathered from interview respondents, following the ousting of the Gaddafi rule in
2011 Libya remains in a continuous phase of political unrest and instability widespread
across the country. This involves a series of conflicts including a civil war, foreign
military interventions and other conditions of insecurity that have fuelled Libya’s crisis
and have adversely impacted families and individuals alongside the Libyan economy and
institutions (FAO Libya, 2015). With respondents quoting that the conflict has
continued to cause displacement and the prevalent economic crisis is contributing
towards increasing food prices, a major priority in Libya now involves food security.
Notably these continued political and instability issues were identified by respondents to
have aggravated Libya’s pre-existing issues of agricultural production; these include
aggravation of water scarcity, labour shortages, desertification, alongside plant and
animal diseases. Moreover, the ongoing crisis situation was quoted to have resulted in
rupture of market links, as well as the disruption of accessibility to electricity, water,
transportation and inputs. In such a time when agricultural involvement is crucial,
respondents quoted that displacement due to insecurity and instability has resulted in a
27

significant proportion of the population abandoning agricultural activity in recent years
and this puts more pressure on obtaining adequate agricultural outputs.
87%
8% 5%
What area/s of agricultural
activity do you currently involve
in?
Olive cultivation
Wheat cultivation
Animal growing
Figure: 6.4.2: Respondents reason for choosing the product for cultivation
Source: Gathered survey data
Analysis of gathered questionnaire data demonstrates that a significant proportion of the
farming respondents are engaged in cultivation of olives (87%), followed by animal
growing (5%) and wheat cultivation (8%) as illustrated in figure 6.4.2 above.
16%
54%
14%
1%
4% 11%
Why did you choose this product for
cultivation?
Traditional
Profitable
Trial
Low cost of cultivation
Easy to market
Advised by experts
Figure: 6.4.3: Respondents reason for choosing the product for cultivation
Source: Gathered survey data
28

In addition, it was found that their reasons for choosing their respective product for
cultivation was mainly due to it being ‘profitable’ (54%) which helped in increasing their
incomes, followed by (16%) farming respondents claiming it to be ‘traditional’ where
the farming lands are passed on by ancestors and the traditional crops are continued to be
cultivated; only a small proportion of respondents (11%), those who had taken on
farming recently or those who were interested in cultivation of crops based on expert
advice considering soil, water and other conditions quoted their reason for choice of their
particular products for cultivation as ‘devised by experts’. This data is illustrated in
figure 6.4.3 above.
It has been found that the most profitable sector covers around 54% and for the company
the product would be chosen in that specific form which would be profitable for business
organisations. The least coverage area is of around 4% and it represents the product
which is very easy to market for company.
6.4.2 How the identified issues impact on Libya engaging in alternate economic activity
(including olive farming)
How issues of political concerns and instability impact on Libya’s economic
diversification
The political and instability issues across Libya have impacted its agricultural population
by bringing in waves of displacement. Interview respondents quoted that alongside this,
the prolonged nature of this situation has impacted the capability of households in
withstanding further challenges, whilst eroding away of market links and purchasing
power have caused opportunities of becoming more resilient and recovering from this
crisis situation more difficult. In this context it is noteworthy that despite the relatively
insignificant contribution made by agriculture to Libya’s economy since the
demolishment of Gaddafi’s rule, around 3% in 2011, a considerable population of
Libyans (around 22%) have been involved in agricultural production; nevertheless, it has
been identified that around 7.5% of this populace have abandoned agricultural activity
since 2014 (FAO Libya, 2015) in a context where food security is a priority in the
country. Interviewees quoted that even displaced populations who have returned back
continually cite challenges of engaging in agricultural activity associated with the crises;
these include increased insecurity, power cuts, inability of accessing or affording inputs,
29

with livestock producers citing difficulty of feeding herds, accessing veterinary facilities,
etc.
It has been reflected from the above information that the two main issues that created an
impact on economy of Libya were certain concerns over politics and instability issues.
Though agriculture sector made their contribution in the economy of company,
population of all Libyans was also got involved in the production of agriculture sector.
6.4.3 The potential of a strengthened agricultural sector to produce large-scale outputs of
agricultural produce for exports
yesno
99.5
0.5
195
1
POTENTIAL OF STRENGHTRNED AGRICULTURE
SECTOR
TO PRODUCE LARGE SCALE OUTPUTS
Percent Frequency
Figure 6.4.3: Potential of a strengthened agricultural sector to produce large scale
outputs
Source: Gathered survey data
Recognising the importance of diversifying the economy to prevent negative
consequences of being heavily dependent on one source of national income, such as oil
currently, it is of essence to strengthen the Libyan agricultural sector. Based on survey
responses, a majority (95.5%) of respondents identified a more strengthened Libyan
agricultural sector to have the potential of significantly contributing to the national
economy. However, a notable (5%) of respondents stated that strengthening this sector
would still not yield sufficient production outputs to sustain national food security and
generate produce for exporting; this was quoted to be due to difficulty recovering from
the current crisis situation by mainly depending on the agriculture sector. Notably for
30

this sector to be increasingly productive, it is essential to address the various issues
identified in the earlier section. From among these, in contrast to the less controllable
climate-related issues, those associated with the political and instability in the country
need to be prioritised; this helps to increase agricultural engagement of the Libyan
population while also bringing in technological advances across the value chain to
enhance agricultural production outputs to large-scale levels like in the Gaddafi times,
thus enabling exports and fostering economic diversification.
From the above information it has reflected that to enhance the agriculture sector the
focus was put on only one area which was the oil corporation as it was only considered
as the source of earning income. To become more productive it is very much crucial to
determine all necessary issues in a timely manner so that no problems are faced by the
company.
6.5 Agricultural policies in other Arab countries with similar economic, weather and
social conditions
Libya competes with a number of other neighbouring Arab countries, all of which have
similar dry climatic conditions owing to the Sahara Desert region with limited rainfall. It
is of essence to understand how agricultural activity is made to contribute to the national
economies of these countries which are all primarily dependent on oil incomes, with
diversification into agriculture and industry sectors similar to the Libyan economy.
Important aspects of agricultural policy in these countries are highlighted.
6.5.1 Agriculture in Algeria
With agriculture comprising of around 25% of the Algeria economy and 12% of GDP in
2016 (Luis, 2017) the country is largely dependent on oil income, and it is arguable that
this is similar to the agricultural composition of the Libyan economy. Similar to Libya,
despite the large geographical size of Algeria its total arable land is less than 4%;
moreover, this cultivatable land faces a Mediterranean climate with common drought
conditions and an unreliable, uneven distribution of rainfall throughout the year. Similar
to Libya, the segments in Algeria’s agricultural sector mainly involve vegetables, fruits
and cereal crops. Government agricultural programs and policies are primarily focused
on increasing domestic production, investments in agricultural infrastructure, as well as
privatisation of the seed sector (FAO Algeria, 2019); these are also considered to be
31

main drivers of Algerian agricultural sector growth in recent times. It has been identified
that with drought conditions significantly affecting agricultural activity in Algeria,
similar to Libya, this country too is incapable of meeting its domestic demands;
therefore, imports are seen to be playing an increasingly important role in this country.
With the agricultural sector being administered by the government of Algeria and its
Ministry of Agriculture, there is significant focus on reducing imports and increasing
domestic production of crops that are in high demand, keeping in mind that climate is
one major factor affecting Algeria’s crop production.
From the above data it is reflected that in terms of agriculture in Algeria, there were
many government programs as well as policies whose main focus was on the
enhancement of domestic production and the privatisation of seed sector. Algeria also
didn’t have much capability to deal with all kind of domestic demands.
Figure 6.5.1: Investment in Algerian agricultural infrastructure, 2019
Source: Algeria FAO (2019)
6.5.4 Agriculture in Saudi Arabia
With agriculture contributing to around 2.5% of GDP in Saudi Arabia which is a
primarily oil-driven economy, the country is engaged in exporting dates, vegetables,
fruits, dairy products, eggs and fish to countries across the world since it has been
capable of achieving self-sufficiency in producing these products (Ouda, 2014). With
the Saudi Arabian government being significantly involved in the country’s agriculture
sector, the primary responsibility for agricultural policies is held by the Ministry of
32

Agriculture. Notably the private sector too is identified to play a role in the agriculture
sector of Saudi Arabia due to the government offering electricity, water, fuel, at low cost
for agricultural activity alongside duty-free imports of machinery and raw material
(Ouda, 2014); long-term interest free loans too are provided to farmers. It is noteworthy
that such agricultural policies have lead to a drastic improvement in the Saudi Arabian
agriculture sector over the past decade.
Notably, even though the country largely constitutes of desert areas there are several
regions where the climate favours agricultural activity. With beneficial rainfall
occurring during the Winter months, the government has particularly supported the
agriculture sector through the conversion of large areas of desert land into agricultural
areas in such areas of abundant rainfall. Data gathered from a structured interview with
the General Manager of a large farm established in 1989 in the Al Jouf region employing
over 1000 employees demonstrates the typical characteristics of farming in Saudi
Arabia. With ownership of the farm being in partnership with the government, the farm
was quoted to use Naphtha power and groundwater sources for cultivation through drip-
irrigation in its 60,000H.a. of farmland incorporating intensive and semi-extensive
farming systems. The major farming output was quoted to be olives (45,000ton),
followed by cereals like wheat (35,000ton) and also palm (6,000ton); notably the6.
respondent quoted the main problems faced in the production of these crops to be natural
and climate conditions alongside disease and death of crops. It is also noteworthy that
the respondent agreed that the availability of financial resources has an important role to
encourage the development of agriculture in Saudi Arabia, this was particularly
identified to be with regard to agricultural machinery and installations.
6.6 How problems affecting the Libyan agricultural sector impact changing the
economic structure in Libya
33

6.6.1 How agricultural sector issues impact an economic structure change
Libya's
agriculture-
dependent
economy will
decline and get
worse
The agricultural
sector will face
problems related
to the shift from a
consumer to a
productive
economy
Productivity may
decline unless
costly advanced
technology and
machinery is used
would make it
difficult to
generate large
agricultural
outputs for
exports
53.1
0.5
12.815.8
46.9
2.6
84.7
81.1
0
9.2
22 0
75.5
0.50.5 0
12.2
00.5
How agricultural sector issues impact economic structure
change
Strongly Disagree Disagree Moderate
Agree Strongly agree
Figure 6.6.1: How agricultural sector issues impact an economic structure change
Source: Gathered survey data
In order for Libya to achieve sustainable long-term growth, it is required to consider the
country’s resource depletion over time alongside the volatility of the world’s commodity
prices in the short-term. In this respect, three important factors promoting the
sustainable boom of an agriculture-based Libyan economy can be gathered through this
study. Firstly, this involves enlarging the value of the agricultural productive base which
is required for sustaining prosperity in the Libyan economy which comprises of a
growing population, and expanding potential for future generations. Secondly it
involves the promotion of increased efficiency and protection against economic
instability. While growing productivity and improving efficiency in the agricultural
sector growth serve as preconditions for faster growth, notably faster growth in GDP
would be achieved through efficient gains and productive growth. The third factor
involves working in close cooperation with the industry sector towards diversifying the
economy. These factors can be considered to reflect three types of producible capital
required for sustaining economic growth, in addition to natural capital; these three
factors serve as mutually reinforcing elements. Applying the Hartwick rule to these
34

elements can help in ensuring that resource revenues are effectively reinvented to
achieve a sustainable Libyan economy.
Figure 6.7.1: Mutually reinforcing elements of economic sustainability
Source: Lange (2004)
7.Possible Contribution
The research's contributions can be seen from multiple viewpoints. Firstly, this
research showed that agriculture development is essential to the economy
diversification in terms of nature and quality. Research agrees that the kind of
approach adopted in the field of agricultural policy affects significantly the role of
agriculture in the broader economy. The research has also highlighted the effect of the
oil sector on the essence and method of the wording and implementation of
agricultural policy in Libya the adoption of an agricultural system in the country
would enable employment generation and sustainable agriculture development the
young generation to engage in contributory, participatory, useful, valuable economic
activities which can lead to the reduced life stress and improved social outcomes in
the young generation.
I hope to enhance the current existing literature of both theoretical and empirical
findings through my research.
8.Research limitations
35

The common financial, time and access research constraints restricted the reach and
extent of the analysis. The fieldwork with farmers was performed in a certain
agricultural area in order to manage these constraints. The lack of appropriate
information storage and retrieval systems was one of the difficulties encountered in
this study.
9. Research plan
Activities/ Date Jan2018-Dec2018 Jan2019-Dec2019 Jan2020-Dec2020 Jan
Background Reading
Training Course
Research methods Courses
The research proposal
First year progress report
Literature review
Pilot study
Writing thesis chapters
Data collection
Data analysis
Second year progress report
Draft writing up
Writing up of final chapters
Proofreading of all chapters
Progress of supervision approval
Submission of completion report
Thesis submission
Submission of thesis of VIVA
As per the above table structure, it is evaluated that the research has mainly focused
on the oil corporation of Libya. There were many questions on which research
focused on like in the form current economic structure of Libya, pre and post Gaddafi
policies and many more. As per the overall aim, purpose, objectives it has been
bought together so that overall analysis can be done efficiently. It is very important
for company to do overall research in a proper manner so that with respect to whole
analysis been done; the future plan is made according to that only.
36

REFERENCES
Books and Journals
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morpholigical data.
Abdulgader, S. (2005). Economic and Agricultural Policies in Libya and the Strategy
for Achieving Food Security. General People's Committee for Planning, Planning
Institute, Tripoli, Libya.
AGUASAT. (2016). FAO's Information System on Water and Agriculture, Libya.
Available at:
Ahmed, L., (2005) Agricultural Situation Report – LIBYA, Market and Trade Policies
for Mediterranean Agriculture: The case of fruit/vegetable and olive oil, MEDFROL
Project.
Anderson, J., (2013). The Lean Change Method: Managing Agile Organizational
Transformation Using Kanban, Kotter, and Lean Startup Thinking. CreateSpace
Independent Publishing Platform.
Angell, J. W., (1926). The Theory of International Prices. History, Criticism and
Restatement Cambridge: Harvard University Press.
Aqeil, H., Tandall, J. & Moran, E. (2011). Water security and interconnected
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