By Tshifhiwa Muifha
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), Vhembe District has joined the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the fight against Stock Theft and Gender Based Violence at PR Mphephu Airport in Vuwani village on 16 October 2024.
Livestock production is a cornerstone to small scale farmers predominantly in rural areas. Stock theft, on the other hand is rife in those areas.
During the Imbizo, community members indicated the importance of having access to animal branding and identification as one of the precautionary measures to reduce the risk of stock theft.
During the sector presentation, livestock owners were explained about the procedures and processes in line with branding and identification of livestock. The most common practice of marking the cattle are ear tagging, hot branding, and tattooing. These don’t limit to the use of ear notches, horn or freeze brands, and neck chains among others.
Deputy Provincial Commissioner Samuel Manala highlighted that properly branded animals can be easily identified and returned to their rightful owners in case they get lost or stolen. Manala encouraged community members to prioritise this practice as a means of protecting their animals.
The collaborative event served as a platform for dialogue between community members and relevant government departments.
