Following the declaration of North West Province as a drought stricken area by the Premier of the Province Mme Thandi Modise, and the classification of the Province as such by the National Disaster Management Centre, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is calling on all affected livestock farmers who have not as yet collected the drought relief forms to do so, as the deadline for submission is Monday, 26 August 2013.
The forms are obtainable from the local offices of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development throughout the Province, at the Organised Agriculture Management and Branches, and participating Agricultural Company Branches such as Noordwes Kooperasie, SENWES, SUIDWES, OBARO, and MONTENEGRO.
The procedure on how to complete and handle the forms is available at these institutions, while the Department’s agricultural extension officers are also on call for further guidance.
According to the MEC for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Desbo Mohono, the declaration of the province as a drought stricken area was expected, as the below average rainfall experienced since last year has had a very negative impact on livestock in all the regions of the North West province.
“While this drought relief process is extended to accommodate all livestock farmers in the Province, it is expected that farmers may benefit according to the drought relief framework, which outlines how categories of farmers may be assisted”, explained MEC Mohono who added that the department will upon receipt of the correctly filled forms, capture and assess the information to determine the extent of help needed.
For more information, livestock farmers are urged to contact Mr S Vorster on 018 389 5405, or Mr D. Morolo at 018 389 5333 or Mr M Phorotlho at 018 389 5341
Contact:
Bonolo Mohlakoana
Communication Services Directorate
Cell: 082 901 2435
Tel: 018 389 5719/5684
Fax: 018 384 4571
Email: Bmohlakoana@nwpg.gov.za or mohlakoana.bonolo@gmail.com
