Union of South Africa Final Report of the Drought Investigation Commission October, 1923

Assessing the impacts of local agriculture on South African water scarcity.

“Two points however, seem firmly established: firstly, that a large portion of South Africa was dry long before the white man arrived…and secondly, that since the white man has been in South Africa enormous tracts of country have been entirely or partially denuded of their original vegetation, with the result that rivers, vleis, and water-holes described by old travelers have dried up or disappeared.” – pg. 3.

This is a fascinating and somewhat unsettling analysis of the several droughts that plagued the Union of South Africa and its constituent peoples during the first two decades of the 20th century. Extensive details are given to the economic impacts on various industries, though there is also an assessment of local migration patterns, the effects of agriculture, and meteorological conditions.

A particularly alarming recommendation can be found on pages 70-71, which suggests the establishment of labor colonies to support private enterprise. It notes that careful consideration should be given to “climate and genetics”, referring to impoverished (white) farmers almost as a separate race. The topic is continued with Appendix 46, The Origin of the Poor-White Question by J.E. Holloway. The volume concludes with numerous charts and maps visualizing data provided throughout the report.

The color-lithographed maps (26 in all) are provided in English and Dutch and show fascinating insight into the contemporary priorities of the British government. Compiled by the Union of South Africa’s Drought Investigation Commission and printed in Cape Town by Cape Times Limited in 1923.

Source.