The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has approved R22 million in relief funding to support livestock farmers struggling with ongoing dry grazing conditions linked to climate variability.
The intervention aims to provide fodder to farmers across affected regions, where extended periods of low rainfall have severely impacted grazing veld, placing strain on livestock and threatening farm sustainability.
Provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, said the support comes at a critical time for the sector.
“Our livestock farmers are under real pressure because of prolonged dry conditions,” Meyer said.
“This intervention is about acting early to protect herds, livelihoods, and grazing resources. We cannot allow short-term climate shocks to undermine the long-term sustainability of agriculture in the Western Cape.”
The department said the funding forms part of a broader risk reduction strategy to ease immediate pressure on natural grazing while helping farmers maintain production as winter approaches.
“This fodder support forms part of our broader risk reduction strategy,” Meyer said.
“By easing pressure on natural grazing now, we help farmers bridge difficult conditions while safeguarding the veld so that it can recover when rains return.”
Meyer warned that climate variability is already having a direct impact on farming conditions in the province, requiring both government intervention and collaboration with the agricultural sector.
“Climate variability is no longer a future threat, it is already shaping farming conditions across our province,” he said.
“Government must respond decisively, but we must also work in partnership with farmers to build resilience into our production systems.”
Livestock farmers have been encouraged to apply for the relief funding and continue implementing sustainable grazing and veld management practices to strengthen long-term resilience.
Application forms are available through the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, while officials have also been made available to assist farmers with the process.
The department said it remains committed to coordinated interventions aimed at supporting farmers, strengthening resilience, and protecting food production in the province.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za