New AFASA KZN chair targets livestock theft and agricultural land crisis

The newly elected chairperson of the KwaZulu-Natal branch of the African Farmers Association of Southern Africa (AFASA), Phikelela Zondi, has vowed to confront the growing challenges facing farmers in the province, including rampant livestock theft and the shortage of agricultural land.

Zondi made the commitment after being elected at the organisation’s recent meeting held in Cedara, Pietermaritzburg.

While expressing gratitude for the confidence placed in him, Zondi said he was deeply concerned about the many difficulties affecting the agricultural sector in KwaZulu-Natal.

Among the key issues topping his priority list is the escalating scourge of livestock theft, which he described as a major burden on farmers.

“This is a serious problem that we must start addressing now and do everything we can to eradicate. It is very sad to hear a farmer complain about livestock theft,” said Zondi.

He stressed that overcoming the problem would require unity, dedication and cooperation among farmers across the province.

“I believe there is nothing more important than cooperation because cooperation makes things easier for all of us,” he said.

Zondi also identified the shortage of agricultural land as another pressing concern affecting farmers in KwaZulu-Natal.

He said farmers could no longer afford to complain about land shortages without actively pursuing solutions.

According to Zondi, collaboration with amakhosi could play a significant role in helping farmers gain better access to land.

“We must remember that amakhosi have land. Therefore, I believe that by bringing them closer to us, there is definitely hope that we can find solutions,” he said.

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