Unique branding to curb livestock theft

A new KZN agriculture department project aims to help put an end to stock theft, writes Jyothi Laldas.

- Jyothi Laldas

With the prevalence of stock theft affecting farmers all over South Africa, the KwaZulu Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (KZN DARD) has embarked on a programme to safeguard livestock in the numerous districts of the province. Launching the latest project, the department visited Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality recently to create awareness and hand over branding kits to livestock farmers in the Loskop area. KZN DARD was introducing unique branding marks for each district with the aim of simplifying the process of reuniting lost livestock with owners. According to KZN agriculture MEC Super Zuma, livestock identification remained an effective means to curb stock theft. He encouraged livestock association members and owners to apply for brand mark certificates.

Handing over branding kits to 13 provincial livestock associations, Zuma said it was crucial for livestock associations to invite South African Police Service (SAPS) stock theft units to monthly meetings.