As the festive season is upon us, South African farmers face unique challenges in safeguarding their livestock against theft, neglect, and diseases.
Free State Agriculture (FSA) safety risk analyst, Dr Jane Buys, and Kenneth Malatji, animal health technician at Afrivet, have called on farmers to take extra care of their livestock during the busy festive season.
Buys highlighted several proactive measures to mitigate the risk of livestock theft, including daily counts, securing gates and fences, and being especially vigilant during full moon periods when visibility favours criminals.
Preventing livestock theft
“Farmers should also ensure livestock are properly brand-marked and adhere to the legal requirements for transporting or selling animals. Be visible in your area or community by assisting the police in higher visibility patrols,” she advised.
According to Buys, installing cameras, locking kraals, and reporting suspicious activities to local authorities or the safety coordinator of the Farmers’ Association can also deter theft.
Buys advised farmers to report all criminal incidents, including trespassing or poisoning of dogs, to the South African Police Service for case docket opening and investigation.
“Report any suspicious movement of persons and or vehicles especially during night time to the Reasonable Articulable Suspicion (RAS) coordinator of SAPS and or the safety representative of the Farmers Association.”
Dr Jane Buys
Buys noted that while there are currently no government-imposed Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) biosecurity regulations requiring disease-free certification for livestock sales, farmers should still prioritise this to protect the sector.
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“The outbreak of diseases has a very detrimental effect on the agricultural sector, particularly on exports and the broader economy,” she said.
Saamtrek Saamwerk’s Sehularo Sehularo said farmers are losing thousands of rands from livestock being stolen or neglected.
“We call upon our members and other farmers to enforce extra security or tighten the security they have. We know this is the time when farmers want to rest but this is the time when criminals want to take advantage,” he said.
Strengthening biosecurity
Biosecurity remains a year-round priority, but it takes on added significance during the festive season. Malatji stressed the importance of limiting farm access and ensuring equipment, vehicles, and footwear are disinfected to prevent contamination.
“Quarantine new animals for at least 28 days before integrating them into the herd,” he advised.
This step, according to Malatji, reduces the risk of introducing diseases like foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), African swine fever (ASF), or avian influenza (bird flu), which could have devastating impacts on livestock health and the agricultural economy.
Farmers planning to take a break during the festive season should have contingency plans in place. Malatji recommended appointing a reliable herdsman to oversee farm operations, providing them with clear instructions and emergency contacts, and arranging periodic check-ins to monitor the situation.
“Arrange for someone you trust to look after the farm in your absence. This person should be experienced in handling livestock and capable of implementing biosecurity measures.”
Kenneth Malatji
“Provide them with clear instructions on disease monitoring, emergency contacts, and farm routines. Have a list of key contacts, including local veterinarians, veterinary clinics, and emergency services. This ensures that help is readily available in case of any emergencies while you are away,” he said.
According to Malatji, it is also vital to educate farmworkers on recognising signs of diseases such as FMD and ASF, ensuring they can act promptly.
“If these symptoms are observed, contact your local state vet immediately. If livestock movement is unavoidable, ensure that the animals are healthy and do not pose a risk,” he advised.
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