In 2024, RMIS Inclusive Growth introduced a pilot programme designed to support communal and small-scale farmers in Limpopo with animal production practices and knowledge sharing at four dip tanks. A key intervention of this programme is the identification of animals through ear tagging and branding, an essential but often overlooked practice for preventing stock theft.
This new pilot project, made possible by AgriSeta discretionary funds, emerged when the National Stock Theft Prevention Forum (NSTPF) identified a critical need for an awareness programme focused on preventative measures against stock theft. Stock theft, often occurring in remote pastures far from homes, is one of the most challenging crimes to prosecute.
The pilot project aims to build awareness about the impact of stock theft on the red meat industry, highlight the importance of preventative measures such as livestock marking as mandated by the Animal Identification Act of 1998, and to create a platform for collaboration against stock theft.
This is a collaborative effort between RMIS and RPO, which oversees the National Stock Theft Prevention Forum under SAPS National instruction 28 of 1995, updated to SAPS national instruction 3 of 2020. The NSTPF includes representatives from SAPS, NPA, DALRRD, SANDF, Correctional Services, APAC, all role players in the red meat value chain, the primary red meat sector, and NSPCA.
The pilot events are scheduled as follows:
• 24 July 2024 – Ephraim Mogale Municipal Hall, Marble Hall.
• 7 August 2024 – Sephaku Village, next to Zwanani Primary School (36km from Groblersdal)
• 15 August 2024
• 19 September
Each event will follow a comprehensive agenda designed to educate and engage farmers:
• Discussion by RPO and Provincial STPF Representative: Impact of stock theft and the importance of community collaboration in prevention.
• Presentation by RMIS: Stock theft mitigation strategies, including livestock identification and marking, and the importance of recordkeeping.
• Explanation by DALRRD: The Animal Identification Act and its regulations.
• Overview by SAPS: Current trends and law enforcement procedures related to stock theft.
• Q&A Session: Addressing farmers’ concerns and focusing on collaborative approaches to combat and prevent stock theft.
Plans for Expansion
If the pilot project proves successful, RMIS plans to expand the programme across all provinces starting in 2025.
