Communal livestock farmers in the North West have received a practical, hands-on boost to their operations, with Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Madoda Sambatha handing over a new livestock handling facility and three quality breeding bulls to farmer associations in the province, SAnews reports.
The handover, which took place on Thursday in Matlosana Local Municipality, saw the livestock handling facility go to the Vaal Reefs Livestock Farmers Association, while the three breeding bulls were presented to the Isibaya the Kraal and Umzimhle Farmers Association. The beneficiary groups are made up of communal farmers from Vaal Reefs and surrounding areas, who together manage a significant cattle herd in the region.
Better genetics, healthier herds
The investment is designed to lift the whole farming operation, from animal health to market value. The new handling facility will allow farmers to manage their cattle far more safely and efficiently during dipping, vaccination, branding and other routine animal health activities, while the three breeding bulls are expected to improve herd genetics — leading to increased productivity and enhanced value for livestock owned by association members.
As part of the handover programme, cattle were also vaccinated against Foot and Mouth Disease, with all vaccinated animals tagged to improve identification, traceability and effective disease control — a practical step that protects both the farmers’ herds and the province’s broader livestock economy.
Part of a bigger provincial push
The provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said the initiative forms part of an ongoing partnership with local farmers aimed at enhancing livestock production, improving herd quality and animal health, and promoting sustainable agricultural development. The intervention is expected to strengthen food security, boost productivity and improve the livelihoods of farming communities.
It is one of several agricultural support initiatives recently rolled out by Sambatha across the North West, with additional projects expected to be completed in the coming months as government continues to drive the growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector.
Addressing farmers at the ceremony, Sambatha reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting emerging and communal farmers through practical interventions that strengthen production, enhance food security and create sustainable rural livelihoods.
“I encouraged beneficiaries to take ownership of this facility and ensure the breeding bulls are properly managed to maximise their long-term benefits for current and future generations of livestock farmers,” he said.
Farmers welcome the support
The beneficiaries welcomed the department’s support and expressed gratitude for interventions that speak directly to the challenges local farmers face. They said the investment will play a vital role in improving farming operations, increasing productivity and sustaining household incomes.
The department said the handover is expected to improve herd quality across the area, contributing to a more competitive, productive and sustainable livestock sector — proof that well-targeted support, delivered directly into farmers’ hands, can change the trajectory of rural communities for generations.
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
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