The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has launched a roadshow aimed at empowering farmers with clear guidance on the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) grant funding application process, and to provide updates on the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak affecting livestock farmers in the province and beyond.
By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming
The workshop, which was held at the Xhariep District Municipality Auditorium, drew about 147 farmers from across the district.
The programme featured presentations on animal health, with a focus on the FMD outbreak; agricultural extension and advisory services, specifically the CASP grant application process; the South African Police Service addressing stock theft and roaming livestock issues; and the Xhariep District Municipality highlighting local economic development initiatives.
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Foot-and-Mouth Disease Updates
Mavis Dlanga, animal health control technician in the Xhariep District, explained that the workshop was organised in response to recurring FMD outbreaks in a number of provinces.
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals that causes major economic losses. The Free State is among six provinces where outbreaks have been confirmed. State veterinarian Dr Nienke van Hasselt noted that Xhariep farmers have been fortunate, as FMD has not yet been detected in the district. She emphasised that biosecurity measures – including vaccination, inspections, surveillance and movement control – will continue until affected areas regain FMD-free status.
Dlanga praised the Veterinary Services team for their dedicated efforts in combating FMD.
Warrant Officer Van Rensburg spoke about stock theft and its impact on the red meat industry, and shared prevention strategies. He stressed that brand marking was the best deterrent against stock theft.
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Grant Funding Guidelines
Tsakatsi Mosikidi, acting deputy director for Extension and Advisory Services in Xhariep District, presented comprehensive guidelines for completing grant funding applications. His presentation covered the application process, including funding scope, application evaluation prerequisites, general qualifying criteria and farm unit composition requirements. He also provided an application form checklist for farmers to follow.
Mosikidi said application forms had to be collected from and submitted at DARD district or ward offices in the Free State, and could also be downloaded from the department’s social media platforms. He stressed that all applicants should consult their local extension office before submitting applications for funding.
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