Farmers need drought aid

THE ongoing drought has left local farmers reeling, with many desperately seeking aid.

Council member for Agri Eastern Cape, Johan Wege, based in Dordrecht, said the drought was affecting all farmers across the region. “We are all in the same situation. This can lead to further losses if support is not forthcoming.”

Although parts of the Chris Hani region received some welcome rain, he said in most areas it was too little, adding that the current state of affairs demanded intervention.

Wege said Agri Eastern Cape was involved in a consultative process with the Department of Agriculture, Fish- eries and Forestry to obtain information about how the department was able to support farmers and the farming communities.

Preparing for the winter months ahead was the biggest challenge encountered by farmers, he said, although the recent rain had brought some relief for the animals.

However, this was not a permanent solution as veld conditions remained very poor, leading to animals chasing after every bit of green vegetation.

Although he admitted that parts of the region showed tinges of green there was no bulk and he emphasised that there was a pressing need for long-term planning in order to secure grazing for the upcoming months.

“The forecast is uncertain; with little or no rain the situation will reach disaster status.”

As agriculture was one of the biggest economic players in the region, he said these dire conditions could lead to job losses.

Wege also commented on the ripple economic effects, saying they would affect far more people than just the farming community. “It will affect all businesses, no matter how big.”

“All farmers are invited to communicate with their structures in organised agriculture. My wish is to assist all farmers in need and to organise support in these areas,” said Wege.