The social media page for the Strydenburg-based organisation KAIN – Karoo animals in need – showcases the realities many farmers, livestock and locals are facing due to the effects of the water shortage.
Loots explains in her post that the drought has plagued the Karoo and outlying areas since 2011, and that there is a dire shortage of livestock fodder.
She adds that her own farm is unable to feed the animals, and many farmers in the area are turning to selling their property in a desperate attempt to escape the disaster.
We cannot help as we are also struggling to feed the animals.” Farmers are being forced to bury their livestock as they pass away from lack of water and food.
Loots goes on to implore the public to donate fodder to farmers in the area so they can feed their animals.
We can get [maize] at R160 a bale.
Please contact Alta Loots at 082 835 9466 if you can sponsor a bale.
We will update as we receive more.” A domino effect Project leader of non-profit organisation Save the Sheep, Sybil Visagie says the Karoo is not equipped to deal with the extreme drought.
Visagie says that backyard farms are receiving aid as well as larger farms.
“Farm workers have lost their jobs and Save the Sheep is helping these individuals by distributing food parcels to them,” she said.