The impact of hygiene and motivational factors on job performance of citrus farm workers in Sarah Baartman District, Eastern Cape Province

This study investigates how Herzberg’s hygiene and motivational factors influence the job performance of citrus farm workers in the Sarah Baartman District of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Using data collected through face-to-face interviews with 160 farm workers and analysed with a logistic regression model, the research explores whether working conditions, supervision, compensation, training, and employee involvement shape performance outcomes in citrus farm operations.<br>The findings show that both hygiene and motivational factors significantly enhance worker performance, with respondents generally satisfied with their working environment, employer–employee relationships, and levels of involvement in decision-making. However, gaps remain in areas such as training, performance feedback, and workload flexibility, which contribute to reduced job satisfaction and performance.<br>The study recommends stronger employee consultation, improved training programmes, fair and transparent compensation practices, and supportive work environments to enhance productivity and retention within the citrus industry. It also highlights the need for further research across other districts and commodity types to broaden understanding of how workplace conditions affect agricultural labour performance in South Africa.<br>