AGRI-PULSE - VAAL REEFS - North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, recently handed over a livestock handling facility to the Vaal Reefs Livestock Farmers Association, and three breeding bulls to the Isibaya the Kraal and Umzimhle Farmers Association in the Matlosana Local Municipality as part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen communal livestock farming, improve herd genetics and increase cattle production.
These farmer groups comprise communal farmers from Vaal Reefs and the surrounding areas who collectively manage a significant cattle herd within the Matlosana region. Through the ongoing partnership between the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and local farmers, the project aims to enhance livestock production, improve herd quality and animal health, and promote sustainable agricultural development. The initiative is expected to strengthen food security, boost productivity, and improve the livelihoods of farming communities.
The intervention forms part of the department’s broader programme to support communal livestock farmers through targeted investments in agricultural infrastructure and access to quality breeding stock. It is among several initiatives recently handed over by MEC Sambatha across the province, with additional projects scheduled for completion in the coming months.
The livestock handling facility will enable farmers to manage their cattle more safely and efficiently during dipping, vaccination, branding and other animal health activities. The three breeding bulls are expected to improve herd genetics, leading to increased productivity and greater value for livestock owned by members of the association.
Addressing farmers during the handover ceremony, MEC Sambatha reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting emerging and communal farmers through practical interventions that boost agricultural production, strengthen food security and create sustainable livelihoods in rural communities.
The MEC encouraged beneficiaries to take ownership of the facility and ensure the breeding bulls are properly managed to maximise their long term benefits for current and future generations of livestock farmers.
Beneficiaries welcomed the department’s support and expressed gratitude for addressing the challenges faced by local farmers.
They indicated that the investment would play a vital role in improving farming operations, increasing productivity, and sustaining household incomes.
