2,500 Livestock Medicines Handed to Gatyana, Dutywa and Xhora Farmers

Mbhashe Mayor Distributes 2,500 Livestock Doses to Farmers

Farmers across the Mbhashe Local Municipality have received a boost after Executive Mayor Samkelo Janda handed over 2,500 doses of Ecomectin 1% livestock medication as part of an intervention aimed at improving animal health in the area.

The distribution took place across the municipality’s three administrative units — Gatyana, Dutywa and Xhora — following concerns that many farmers have been struggling with livestock diseases that have reportedly resulted in significant animal losses.

Addressing Livestock Health Challenges

The municipality said the intervention comes after identifying that a large number of farmers were heavily affected by disease outbreaks that have killed many of their animals. The initiative is expected to improve overall livestock health and reduce the burden faced by emerging and small-scale farmers.

Speaking during the handover, Mayor Janda emphasised the importance of cooperation between government departments and the municipality in supporting farmers.

He encouraged farmers to heed advice from the Department of Agriculture, stressing that collaboration is critical to strengthening the local agricultural sector.

Warning Against Cheap Livestock Purchases

The mayor also cautioned farmers against purchasing livestock at unusually low prices. He warned that animals sold cheaply may be diseased, which could undermine efforts to improve herd quality and animal health within the municipality.

He stated that the municipality’s goal is to see local livestock reach a standard that allows farmers to participate competitively in auctions rather than limiting sales to local ceremonial markets.

The mayor said the broader objective is to help farmers improve their herds so they can increase their income. He added that the provision of medication is intended to strengthen livestock health, enabling farmers to access better markets and achieve improved financial returns.

He also noted that the local wool shed in Mbhashe has performed strongly within the province, highlighting the potential for farmers to see improved profits when livestock health standards are maintained.

Farmers Welcome the Support

One of the beneficiaries, Mzwakhe Nxiweni, expressed appreciation for the support. He said livestock medication is expensive and often difficult for farmers to afford.

Nxiweni indicated that the intervention would help reduce their financial burden while improving the health of their animals.

Following the distribution in Gatyana, the mayor proceeded to the TRC Hall in Dutywa to continue handing over additional livestock medication to farmers in that area.

The municipality said it remains committed to ensuring that essential services and support reach communities, particularly those involved in agriculture, which remains a key economic activity in the region.