The Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) has approved R22 million in risk reduction relief to provide critical fodder support to livestock farmers affected by ongoing dry grazing conditions linked to climate variability.
Extended periods of limited rainfall have placed severe pressure on grazing veld across several regions of the province, negatively affecting livestock condition and placing farm sustainability at risk.
“Our livestock farmers are under real pressure due to prolonged dry conditions,” said provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Ivan Meyer. “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.”
Climate Pressure Mounts on Grazing Lands
Dry conditions have significantly reduced available natural grazing, forcing many farmers to rely on supplementary feeding. Without intervention, continued pressure on veld could lead to long-term degradation and reduced recovery potential once rainfall returns.
R22 Million Relief Intervention Announced
The department’s fodder support programme is designed to reduce immediate strain on grazing systems while stabilising livestock production ahead of the winter season.
“This support forms part of a broader risk reduction strategy,” Meyer explained. “By easing pressure on natural grazing now, we help farmers bridge difficult conditions while safeguarding the veld for recovery when rains return.”
Protecting Veld and Future Production
The initiative highlights the importance of proactive measures to maintain both livestock health and environmental sustainability. By protecting grazing resources now, the department aims to support continued agricultural productivity in the months ahead.
“Climate variability is no longer a future threat — it is already shaping farming conditions across our province,” Meyer added. “Government must respond decisively, but we must also work in partnership with farmers to build resilience into our production systems.”
How Farmers Can Apply
Livestock farmers are encouraged to apply for the available relief and to continue implementing sustainable grazing and veld management practices as part of long-term climate resilience planning.
Application forms are available online at: https://www.elsenburg.com/programmes/disaster-risk-reduction/drought-disaster-survey-forms/
Alternatively, farmers may contact Mr Leslie Marthinussen at 021 808 5360 or via email at [email protected]
The Western Cape Department of Agriculture remains committed to timely, coordinated interventions that support farmers, strengthen resilience, and protect food production across the province.