SO far, 26 cattle died across the country this week as freezing temperatures brought by the current cold front continue to affect livestock, with farmers urged to protect vulnerable animals.
In the Hhohho region, Regional Veterinary Officer Dr Thembi Ndlangamandla confirmed that 16 deaths were recorded in different parts of the region, with eight reported at Mnyokane, four at Kufikeni, two at Ngwenya and two at Motjane. She said one more animal was seriously ill, while another sick animal was reported at Nkoyoyo.
Ndlangamandla urged farmers to ensure that all livestock have proper shelter during the cold weather, stressing that older cattle should not be left in kraals as the ground is wet but instead placed between houses.
She also advised farmers to keep animals warm and dry, including making bedding for pigs by cutting grass and placing it on the floor.
The deaths come as the country experiences extremely cold and wet weather, raising concerns over the impact of the conditions on livestock, particularly young and vulnerable animals.
Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka said some farmers had contacted him before the cold front settled in, seeking advice on how to protect their livestock.
He said farmers were advised to take extra measures to protect animals that are more vulnerable to cold temperatures, noting that small calves are very fragile unlike older cattle and must be kept in shelters or old houses. He also advised farmers to protect crops by covering plants with sacks or other suitable materials.
At Maphalaleni, farmer Thabo Dlamini is counting losses of about E27 000 after losing three cows within two days following the extreme cold weather conditions.
He said the freezing conditions left his cows shivering and struggling to walk, eventually resulting in their deaths. Dlamini explained that all three had given birth last year and their calves were still dependent on them for milk, which contributed to their weakness and made them more vulnerable to the cold.
A veterinary officer stationed at Maphalaleni confirmed that the cold was extreme, saying some farmers resorted to making large fires in their kraals to keep livestock warm.
She encouraged farmers to provide supplements throughout the seasons to ensure animals remain strong and less vulnerable to harsh weather.
Two cows were reported dead on Wednesday morning, leaving calves behind, while a family at Mpuluzi discovered five cows had died the same day. At Nceka in the Lubombo region, a baby goat was also found dead.
