By Simon Ramafalo
MEC Makamu engages with cattle affected farmers.
The Limpopo MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Basikopo Makamu, has led a team of Animal Health Technicians and State Veterinarians to Mankotsana Village, under Fetakgomo-Tubatse Local Municipality in Sekhukhune District, following an emergency report of the sudden death of approximately 38 cattle at a communal watering point.
MEC Makamu rushed to the scene to assess the incident first-hand and to engage with the affected farmers. A team of State Veterinarians and Animal Health Technicians has been deployed on site to conduct tests and establish the cause of death. At this stage, water intoxication cannot be ruled out.
To ensure a thorough intervention, MEC Makamu convened an urgent meeting with the affected farmers at the Tau-Mankotsana Community Hall. The intervention was fully supported by the Tau-Mankotsana Traditional Authority under Kgoshi Marumo'a Kanyane of the Tau-Mankotsana Traditional Council in Ward 35, Apel.
The Department is working around the clock to establish the root cause of this tragedy and to provide support to the affected farming community during this difficult time. As an immediate relief measure, MEC Makamu handed over cattle feed to the affected farmers.
Further updates will be provided as soon as the definitive cause of death is established.
