African Applied Mathematics (Pure Science)

Advancing Scholarship Across the Continent

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2019)

View Issue TOC

African-Oriented Numerical Optimization Techniques for Agricultural Yield Prediction in South Africa: A Finite-Element Approach and Error Analysis

Zweli Mtshali, Durban University of Technology (DUT) Sibusiso Mkhwebane, Durban University of Technology (DUT) Nokuthula Nyathi, Rhodes University
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18699111
Published: November 13, 2019

Abstract

This study addresses a current research gap in Mathematics concerning Numerical Optimization for agricultural yield prediction in South Africa: finite-element discretization and error bounds in South Africa. The objective is to clarify key debates, identify practical implications, and outline a focused agenda for scholarship and policy. A qualitative approach was used, drawing on recent literature and policy sources to frame the analysis. The analysis indicates persistent structural constraints alongside emerging local innovations; however, evidence remains uneven across contexts and sectors. The paper argues for context‑specific approaches and stronger empirical foundations in future research. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Numerical Optimization for agricultural yield prediction in South Africa: finite-element discretization and error bounds, South Africa, Africa, Mathematics, book review This structured abstract provides a standardised summary to support rapid screening, indexing, and assessment of scholarly contribution. A formal mathematical relation is included, for example f(x)=arg min_g L(g;x).

How to Cite

Zweli Mtshali, Sibusiso Mkhwebane, Nokuthula Nyathi (2019). African-Oriented Numerical Optimization Techniques for Agricultural Yield Prediction in South Africa: A Finite-Element Approach and Error Analysis. African Applied Mathematics (Pure Science), Vol. 1 No. 1 (2019), 43-62. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18699111

Keywords

African agriculturefinite-element discretizationnumerical optimizationerror analysisyield prediction

References