Invasive plants are rapidly spreading in the Eastern Cape due to climate change, reducing grazing land, poisoning livestock, and blocking water access. Cebile Qwabe, researcher assistant, and Siphe Zantsi, agricultural economist at the economic analysis unit of the Agricultural Research Council, suggest public awareness, manual removal, and new control methods to address the issue.
As climate change continues to reshape our planet, its effects are acutely felt in rural areas where agriculture holds significant importance. Amidst the challenges farmers face, a silent invader lurks – invasive and poisonous plants. These aggressive species, aided by warmer temperatures and erratic weather patterns, are not only altering the landscape but also posing significant threats to livestock production.
Warmer weather allows invasive plants to enjoy longer growing seasons, accelerating their establishment and spread. Additionally, as climatic conditions shift, some invasive species can expand their range into new territories that were previously unsuitable, further exacerbating their impact on rural ecosystems.
In the Eastern Cape, particularly within the Port Saint Johns Municipality, several invasive plant species have significantly impacted rural ecosystems. One notable example is Lantana camara, commonly known as lantana or tick berry. Lantana has spread aggressively, forming dense growth along riverbanks and hillsides. These dense stands outcompete native vegetation, reducing grazing land for livestock and altering the natural habitat for indigenous wildlife.
A notably high density of lantana was observed between homesteads along the roadway in Goqwana village during a livestock survey conducted in April 2024. Goqwana village, part of the Port Saint Johns Municipality, is nestled deep within the beautiful landscape of South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. With its proximity to the Indian Ocean coast, Goqwana enjoys a unique blend of coastal charm and rural tranquillity.
Impact on agriculture in Goqwana Village
Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, agriculture in Goqwana village encompasses a mix of livestock rearing, crop cultivation, and other agricultural activities, reflecting the agricultural diversity and rural livelihood strategies prevalent in the region.
Raising livestock is common in this village; farmers typically keep 20 cattle, 100 sheep, and 20 goats on average. However, the animals in the area are severely endangered by invasive plants, which outgrow and spread faster than the native vegetation. See Figure 1.
Livestock theft and rural robberies at night have also emerged as a pressing concern for the farmers in this area. Under the cover of darkness, criminals target farms and homesteads, stealing livestock and valuable possessions, and plunging the community into a state of insecurity and fear.
Lantana generally affects the quantity and quality of feed available, which has a direct impact on livestock productivity in the area. The diversity of plant species in pastures decreases as a result of these plants outcompeting local vegetation. Consequently, there is a reduction in suitable grazing land for livestock, leading to decreased feed availability. Moreover, these plant species contain toxins or compounds that are harmful to livestock if ingested.
Animals grazing on pastures invaded by these plants may suffer from poisoning, which can range from mild symptoms to fatal outcomes. Lantana can hinder livestock movement and access to water sources due to its dense growth habits or thorny structures, increasing the risk of injuries and stress among animals.
Related stories
- Sustainable grazing is key to livestock success
- Tiny tracks: AI uncovers wildlife secrets, climate change clues
Opportunities for employment and economic development
Although these invasive plants are often viewed as a threat to rural ecosystems and agricultural productivity, they also present an opportunity to create rural employment and economic development. Efforts to control and manage invasive species require labour-intensive tasks such as manual removal, mechanical clearing, and the restoration of native vegetation.
Rural development policy can capitalise on these opportunities by employing residents in invasive plant management programmes, thereby creating jobs and stimulating economic activity in areas like Goqwana village.
Additionally, the development and implementation of innovative control techniques, such as biological control or integrated weed management strategies, may require specialised skills and expertise, providing employment opportunities for researchers, technicians, and consultants.
Awareness and control measures
One possible approach to managing these invasive species is launching an awareness campaign. The government can raise public awareness about the impacts of invasive plants on rural communities and the importance of proactive management. This may involve public outreach campaigns, educational materials, and workshops aimed at increasing understanding of invasive species issues and promoting citizen involvement in monitoring and control efforts.
This could also be an opportunity for agribusinesses to market their pesticides, which should be used to completely eradicate the root systems of these invasive plants. Additionally, government agencies can provide technical assistance to rural communities by offering guidance on invasive plant identification, control methods, and best management practices.
This should be a yearly campaign, as these invasive plants have likely established a rich seed bank in the soil, meaning they will persist for some time.
- Cebile Qwabe is a researcher assistant, and Siphe Zantsi is an agricultural economist at the economic analysis unit of the Agricultural Research Council. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Food For Mzansi.
READ NEXT: Shrivel or rot: What your produce reveals about agricultural practices
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
