Siphelele Nketo

INCIDENTS of stock theft at the border area of Sani Pass and Bushman’s Nek in Underberg formed part of discussions between the Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Local Municipality and Lesotho authorities.

The impact of the unmanaged migration took centre stage during the cross-border and stock theft meeting at Himeville community hall recently as stakeholders across spheres of government and communities gathered to seek solutions.

Representatives from Lesotho attended to coordinate partners to effectively manage migration and agree on a government cooperation agreement.

At the meeting, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Local Municipality mayor Sindi Msomi emphasised the urgent need for the meeting to consider solutions.

She also mentioned foot and mouth disease, which was affecting the agricultural sector and economy.

She said there was a need for more effective cooperative governance and collaboration to manage borders.

“Illegal migration presents unique challenges to the municipality,” Msomi said.

Ward councillor Basil Ntshiza said that bilateral meetings need to take place more often in order to strengthen relations and seek solutions.