Cape town: The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has approved R22 million in risk reduction funding to provide fodder support to livestock farmers affected by ongoing dry grazing conditions linked to climate variability.
According to South African Government News Agency, the department issued a statement on Wednesday announcing that extended periods of limited rainfall have placed significant pressure on grazing veld across several regions, negatively affecting livestock conditions and threatening farm sustainability. Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Dr Ivan Meyer, emphasized that livestock farmers are facing immense challenges due to prolonged dry conditions.
Dr Meyer stated, "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." He further explained that the department is implementing this intervention to reduce immediate pressure on natural grazing resources and stabilize production systems ahead of the winter season.
He elaborated that the fodder support is a part of the department's broader risk reduction strategy. "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. Climate variability is no longer a future threat; it is already shaping farming conditions across our province," the MEC added.
While stressing the need for a decisive government response, Meyer also highlighted the importance of collaboration with farmers to build "resilience into our production systems." The department has encouraged livestock farmers to apply for the available relief and to continue implementing sustainable grazing and veld management practices as part of long-term climate resilience planning.