The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Administration (DARDLA) has noted with concerns reports of cattle mortality in the Nkangala District that occurred in the past few days. At least 29 deaths have been reported in Kwaggafontein A, Gemsbokfontein in the Mkobola area, Vriesgewagcht and Moloto in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality.
Investigations are already underway and samples have since been collected from the dead animals to establish the exact cause of death. Farmers reported that they started observing their sick animals in the past few days. The cattle reportedly displayed nervous signs like tremors, ataxia and paresis, prior to death.
Although investigations are underway, it is worth noting that heavy rains accompanied by hailstorm and the cold weather, prevailed in those areas since Wednesday last week, negatively affecting the already weak animals due to the scarcity of grazing and poor plane of nutrition. It should also be noted that grazing is mainly communal in these areas; and owing to widespread veld fires and severe drought, the veld is spares and livestock is generally in poor condition at this time of the year.
Currently, the Department is making efforts to ascertain the exact number of cattle that died and also ensuring proper disposal of carcasses to reduce environmental contamination and public health risk.
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