The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, led by the MEC NKK Thembeni MaDlopha-Mthethwa, in collaboration with Umfolozi Local Municipality, under the leadership of His Worship, the Mayor of Umfolozi, Cllr X M Bhengu, hosted a dipping program and rabies awareness campaign at the Syabonga Sangweni Sports Complex in Dondotha. The event aimed to address critical agricultural issues, including livestock health and rabies prevention, which are key concerns for rural communities.
The event was attended by officials from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, representatives from Umfolozi Municipality, local councillors, and various community members. Also present were agricultural businesses and stakeholders from different parts of KwaZulu-Natal, showcasing their products and services to support local farmers.
Agricultural Businesses Showcase Services
Among the businesses present was BKB, The Trusted Home of Agriculture, which presented its wide range of services to the farming community. Andrew Banks from BKB highlighted their expertise in livestock sales, trading animal feed, supplements, medicines, and other essential products such as hay bales. He emphasized the importance of supporting farmers through services like workshops designed to enhance their agricultural practices.
Another participant, Thatha Zonke Company, which operates in Richards Bay, Empangeni, and Mtubatuba, showcased its offerings, including animal feed, equipment, chicks, layer hens, sawdust, medications, and cleaning materials, alongside staple foods. Mondli Ngcamu from TWK Agri took officials through the services offered by Handel Trade and Nibrac Animal Health, which provide cow fertility injections and supplements among other products.
Mayor of Umfolozi Encourages Livestock Vaccination
In his welcoming remarks, Mayor Cllr X M Bhengu expressed his gratitude to the KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development for their swift response to issues previously raised by farmers. He acknowledged the efforts made by the department, under the leadership of MEC MaDlopha-Mthethwa, to address agricultural challenges within the municipality.
During his address, the mayor urged all farmers to prioritize the vaccination of their livestock to prevent diseases and infections. He highlighted the importance of vaccinating not only livestock but also domestic animals like dogs, which can transmit diseases through bites. The mayor stressed the municipality’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring their concerns are addressed promptly. https://fb.watch/voyh-XYgxh/
MEC MaDlopha-Mthethwa Addresses Farmers’ Concerns
KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC of Agriculture and Rural Development, Honourable NKK Thembeni MaDlopha-Mthethwa, outlined the purpose of the programme, emphasizing the importance of maintaining livestock health. She expressed her appreciation for the event’s success and acknowledged the concerns raised by farmers regarding the availability of chemicals needed for dipping.
MEC MaDlopha-Mthethwa noted that areas within the King Cetshwayo, Zululand, and uMkhanyakude District Municipalities have been experiencing issues with livestock suffering from leprosy. She assured farmers that the department is working to supply the necessary chemicals and treatments, despite challenges caused by proximity to wildlife reserves where buffalo, known carriers of leprosy, are found. The MEC pledged continued support for farmers and reiterated the department’s commitment to combating livestock diseases.
Chief of KwesakaMthethwa Highlights Farming Challenges
Closing the event, the Chief of KwesakaMthethwa reflected on the challenges he has faced since beginning farming in 1983. He explained that the ongoing drought has severely impacted his ability to farm sugarcane, maize, sweet potatoes, and other vegetables. Furthermore, he expressed frustration over livestock vandalizing his crops, which has hindered his ability to sustain agricultural production.https://fb.watch/voz4FdieVI/
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from both the Department of Agriculture and Umfolozi Municipality to support local farmers in overcoming agricultural challenges and ensuring the health and safety of livestock through regular vaccinations and access to necessary resources.
