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GOVERNMENT WARNS FARMERS ON LUMPY SKIN DISEASE

By Majaha Nkonyane | 2018-03-20

government, through the ministry of agriculture, has warned farmers on the dangers of lumpy skin disease.

The warning was issued by Minister of Agriculture Moses Vilakati.

“It my duty to sensitise livestock farmers on various diseases such as lumpy skin disease. This is a viral disease that affects cattle typically characterised by modules or lumps on the skin. All cattle breeds in the country can be affected and it usually occurs during the wet summer and autumn months when flies are in abundance. Thus farmers should be aware that their cattle are safe from the disease,” he said.

Farmers were further cautioned on the importance of vaccinating their cattle once a year against the disease. The best time to vaccinate, according to Vilakati, is before the summer rains to ensure good protection.

On another note, farmers were also cautioned on the dangers of blackleg disease which was equally labelled a dangerous disease. Blackleg was said to be an infectious bacterial dieases which occurs during the hot and humid summer months or after a sudden cold period.

Meanwhile, the minister said his ministry was in the process of increasing goat production towards commercialising goat production in the country.

The ministry has developed a model which has led to the identification of 103 innovative smart goat farmers in the country.

The ministry is also encouraging farmers to generate income from sheep farming and fishing. “As a minister for the ministry of agriculture, I just find myself compelled to promote the production of sheep countrywide. Raising of sheep has economic benefits as these are docile, gentle animals and they serve many purposes like providing meat and fibre,” he said.

Furthermore, Vilakati encouraged farmers to venture into fish farming which can be done for both commercial and subsistence purposes. Fish is said to be one of the most nutritious foods.

Fish farming was said to be an income generating project which contributes to economic growth.

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