Deepening rural poverty is of great concern. Yet, too little is known about how people survive in the rural areas of South Africa, and in particular how people's survival strategies are adapting to changing economic circumstances. This study sheds light on the experience of rural dwellers in respect of four areas of economic activity in four provinces - Limpopo, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. The report highlights the challenges faced by public policy in addressing rural poverty. For example, although growing competitiveness and dynamism in commercial farming may have benefits, this has been detrimental to more marginalised workers. Strategic and potent approaches to stimulating the rural economy are needed if the tide of rural poverty is to be stemmed.