WAEC Economics 2020 Theory — Question 8

Model answer

(a) Subsistence farming can be defined as the type of farming which involves farming for the immediate family consumption. In most cases, the farmer uses cutlass and hoe as tools of farming. Commercial farming, on the other hand, involves farming at a large scale with the intention of selling the farm product in the market. In most cases, the farmer uses mechanized farming tools and, in most cases, he goes into crop farming only. (b) Features of subsistence farming: i. It is meant for consumption of the immediate family. ii. Traditional farming tools are used in farming. iii. Farming is done on small land and thus, there is little landholding issues. iv. In most cases, he goes into crop farming only. (c) Positive effect of mining on the economy of West African countries: it serves as a source of revenue to the government; it provides employment opportunities to the citizens. Negative effect of mining on the economy of West African countries: different types of pollution of the environment due to the negligence of the mining firms; emergence of militancy in the countries.