The Western Cape department of agriculture has approved R22 million in risk reduction relief to provide fodder support to livestock farmers affected by ongoing dry grazing conditions linked to climate variability.
Extended periods of limited rainfall have placed significant pressure on grazing veld across several regions of the province, affecting livestock conditions and threatening farm sustainability.
Provincial minister of agriculture, economic development and tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, said livestock farmers are under real pressure because of prolonged dry conditions.
“This intervention is about acting early to protect herds, livelihoods, and grazing resources. We cannot allow short‑term climate shocks to undermine the long‑term sustainability of agriculture in the Western Cape,” Meyer said.
The department is implementing the intervention to reduce immediate pressure on natural grazing resources and stabilise production systems as winter approaches.
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“This fodder support forms part of our broader risk reduction strategy. By easing pressure on natural grazing now, we help farmers bridge difficult conditions while safeguarding the veld so that it can recover when rains return.
“Climate variability is no longer a future threat; it is already shaping farming conditions across our province. Government must respond decisively, but we must also work in partnership with farmers to build resilience into our production systems,” he said.
How farmers can apply for help
According to the department, during drought in the Western Cape, farmers face devastating losses as pastures fail and livestock go hungry. Providing feed support keeps animals alive, protects livelihoods, and sustains rural communities, especially in places where drought has hit hard in the past months.
Livestock farmers can apply for the department’s relief and to continue implementing sustainable grazing and veld management practices as part of long‑term climate resilience planning.
Application forms are available here. Alternatively, farmers can contact Leslie Marthinussen at 021 808 5360 or Leslie.Marthinussen@westerncape.gov.za.
The Western Cape department of agriculture said it remains committed to timely, coordinated interventions that support farmers, strengthen resilience, and protect food production in the province.
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