Farm security remains one of the most pressing issues for South African farmers, with livestock theft and farm invasions reaching alarming levels. Mamello Sefume, founder of Farm Online Safety and Security, discusses innovative solutions to address these challenges and technologies designed to enhance both crop and livestock security.
She shares insights into the current state of farm security in South Africa and the transformative role technology can play in protecting farms and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.
The state of farm security in South Africa
Farm security is a significant concern for farmers in South Africa, with reports of increasing incidents of livestock theft and farm-related crimes. According to a statement by the Parliament of South Africa, the first quarter of the 2024/25 crime statistics revealed a worrying increase in stock theft, which undermines agricultural productivity, a critical pillar of the economy.
The statement noted that an increase in stock theft negatively affects new-era and small farming businesses. In the fourth quarter of 2024, there were 6 228 cases of stock theft, an increase of 5.5% compared to the same period last year. As the SAPS (South African Police Service) collaborates with Farm Online Safety and Security, the organisation has seen first-hand the detrimental effects of theft on farmers’ livelihoods.
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Sefume notes that the impact goes beyond financial loss, as many farmers are forced to let go of workers due to increased theft. This further exacerbates the economic strain, weakening rural economies and farming communities.
Understanding the security challenges
New entrant farmers, in particular, face significant hurdles, as many lack the financial resources to invest in modern security technologies. This leaves them vulnerable to theft and often results in reduced productivity and economic setbacks.
Sefume stresses that farmers must consider farm security part of their business plan to ensure that operations remain safe and sustainable in the long run.
Available security technologies for farmers
To address these concerns, various technologies have emerged that can help safeguard both crops and livestock. These solutions are tailored to different scales of farming, from small-scale operations to large commercial farms.
Crop netting and sensors
For crop farmers, netting systems combined with sensors offer an effective way to detect unauthorised access. Install sensors around a farm’s perimeter to alert farmers when they detect an intruder. “Sensors can alert you when someone comes within a certain radius of the farm,” Sefume explains.
This provides a real-time warning system, enabling farmers to respond quickly to potential threats.
Solar-powered security cameras
For those managing both crops and livestock, solar-powered cameras are an excellent option. Place these cameras strategically to monitor activities 24/7, even in areas with unreliable power supply.
“We can set them so that within a specified radius, when someone is approaching, you can know who is there,” says Sefume. The cameras are equipped with two-way speakers, allowing farmers to communicate with individuals on their property.
“It has 360-degree rotation, so you can see all around your farm,” she adds. Footage can be accessed remotely via smartphone, enabling farmers to keep an eye on their property from anywhere.
GPS tracking for livestock
One of the most exciting developments in farm security is the use of GPS technology for livestock monitoring. Devices installed on cattle and other animals allow farmers to track movements and detect irregularities, such as sudden changes in grazing patterns that may signal illness or theft.
“When a cow or a sheep is sick, there’s less movement,” Sefume explains. “You can identify it as a farmer and be able to tackle the issue.” This system also enables farmers to track livestock in real time, which is particularly useful in cases of theft.
“With the SAPS on board, we can help track livestock and potentially recover stolen animals,” she says.
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Thermal imaging cameras
According to a rural safety guide by Arrive Alive, thermal imaging cameras are gaining popularity in South Africa thanks to falling prices and an increasing range of uses. These devices record infrared radiation emitted from the skin or surroundings, producing colour-coded visuals where hotter areas appear red, cooler areas blue, and lukewarm areas in shades of orange or yellow.
These images can be used to detect the movement of animals or humans. “Thermal cameras provide a much clearer image compared to conventional imaging solutions and have a considerably longer threat detection range when compared to lower resolution surveillance cameras.”
Affordable and sustainable farm security solutions
While these technologies are powerful, Sefume emphasises the importance of budgeting for security. “When you go into farming, you need to plan for security. It’s part of farming,” she advises.
Although the technologies can be affordable, they require careful financial planning to ensure long-term sustainability.
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