In order to clarify the content of the tragic case discussed in this paper, background Sections on selected characteristics of the district are given. The paper discusses the evolution of farming systems in Ismani Division- Iringa District, and the considerable development of social stratification. There were progressive innovators – including those who owned lorries, individual farmers using mechanized equipment, farmers employing labour etc on one side and traditional peasants and traditional peasants and herders on the other side.