Newsroom

By Baakedi Rachidi

The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD) in partnership with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) hosted a Farmers’ Day event at Toowomba Research Station in Bela Bela, Waterberg District on Tuesday, 27 January 2026.

The well-attended event focused on small stock production and aimed at empowering farmers with knowledge and practical skills to improve productivity and support profitable farming practices. Farmers were educated on a range of important topics relevant to the small stock sector. Presentations covered key areas such as indigenous small stock breeds and their conservation, record keeping and animal identification, breeding selection, nutrition, stock theft and common diseases affecting small stock.

A major highlight of the event was a presentation on Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), currently one of the most critical and trending disease concerns in the agricultural sector. The presentation was delivered by Dr. Ephraim Tshepo Kgopa, who explained the origins of the disease, how it spreads, and the serious risks it poses to livestock production. Dr. Kgopa emphasised that anyone transporting cloven-hoofed animals is required to apply for a permit for the movement of such animals, whether the movement is within a province or across provincial borders. He stressed that FMD spreads rapidly and can have devastating effects if not managed correctly. Farmers were encouraged to promptly report any suspected cases of disease in their livestock. Early warning signs included limping and loss of appetite. The presentation also addressed key principles of biosecurity aimed at preventing and controlling the spread of FMD. Farmers were educated on practical measures to safeguard their small stock, protect their farms, and enhance overall production.

The Farmers’ Day event proved to be a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, engagement, and collaboration, reinforcing the department’s commitment to supporting small-scale farmers.