By Maile Matsimela
Livestock theft is a serious issue in South Africa, with rural communities bearing the brunt of the economic losses.
In the fourth quarter of the 2023/24 financial year, 6 228 cases of stock theft were reported – an increase of 5,5% compared to the same period the previous year. Between April and June 2024 – the first quarter of the 2024/25 financial year – the number rose slightly to 6 321 cases, marking an 0,4%increase.
Farmers have every right to expect improved prevention strategies from the police, but they should also take proactive measures, such as registering an official animal identification mark to establish ownership.
The mark makes it possible for the authorities to trace the owner if a lost or stolen animal is found.
If you own cattle, sheep, goats or pigs, marking them is compulsory. Livestock owners must register an animal identification mark at the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.
An identification mark consists of up to three letters of the alphabet or symbols. It can be permanently applied using hot iron branding, freeze branding or tattooing.
If you acquire new animals – whether you buy them or receive them as a gift – you must mark them with your registered identification mark within two weeks. Any animals you sell should also carry your identification mark.
Your mark is recorded in the national register of the Animal Identification System (AIS), and no one else may use it or brand your animals without your permission.
It’s important to note that you may not apply an identification mark to your animals unless the mark has been registered with the department.
Steps for registering an identification mark
1. Download the application form or obtain one from an extension officer, magistrate’s office, SAPS stock-theft unit or the Registrar: Animal Identification in Pretoria.
2. Complete and sign the application form. If you have not personally signed the application, a letter from you authorising the signatory must be attached to the application form.
3. Pay the fee of R200 to:
Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Standard Bank
Branch: Arcadia
Branch Number: 051001
Account Number: 011252871
4. Submit the application together with your proof of payment by email, post or in person:
• by email: animalid@dalrrd.gov.za
• by post: The Registrar of Animal Identification, Private Bag X138, Pretoria, 0001
• in person: Take the application form and proof of payment to the Delpen Building on the corner of Annie Botha Avenue and Union Street, Riviera, Pretoria.
The process takes about 30 working days to complete. For more information, call 012 319 7637.
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