“The impact of the dry period on these farmers is more likely to be felt in the long term rather than in short term product shortages,” according to Kwazulu- Natal Agricultural Union President, Mike Black.
Farmers who donated hay to East Griqualand farmers in June after the devastating fires there, now find themselves short of roughage. Perennial streams were drying up which affected livestock watering in areas where stock was dependent on natural water, he said.
“The situation is so bad that feed reserves are now extremely low. There is no longer any hay available to buy leaving those short of feed in a tight spot.” John Wetton, a cattle farmer told Farmer’s Weekly.
However, South African weather forecaster, Edwin Phema expects good rains in the province over the weekend.
