Siphelele Nketo
AN Animal Improvement System Information Day was hosted recently in the Nongingqa community hall in Ward 4, Umzimkhulu, to empower farmers and the local community with essential knowledge on livestock care, animal health, disease prevention and the use of modern technology to monitor and protect livestock.
This was organised through partnership between Umzimkhulu Local Municipality as well as the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Farmers were educated about common livestock diseases, with a particular emphasis on mastitis, a disease that affects cattle.
Speakers stressed the importance of farmers understanding animal diseases, recognising symptoms at an early stage and taking appropriate measures to protect their livestock.
Farmers were encouraged to remain informed about animal health and adopt good livestock management practices.
A modern livestock-tracking technology known as the ZP Tracker was introduced to farmers. The device can be attached on an animal’s neck or ear to help farmers monitor the location of their livestock using digital technology. The device can also assist in locating missing or stolen animals.
Speaking on behalf of the Umzimkhulu Municipal Pound, Carl Mark urged farmers to take responsibility for ensuring that their livestock is properly cared for and kept safe. He encouraged farmers to revive traditional livestock-herding practices by taking animals out to graze in the morning and returning home in the evening.
He further advised farmers who do not follow these practices to ensure that their livestock is kept in secure areas so the animals do not roam around public roads where they could endanger the lives of motorists and other road users. The information-sharing day highlighted the importance of combining traditional livestock-management practices with modern technology to improve animal health, protect livestock and promote responsible farming.
