The department's MEC, Sam Mashinini stated that the purpose of the campaign is to urge farmers and livestock owners in the area to be more vigilant. 

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This awareness campaign was also launched to encourage and educate farmers and livestock owners on how to mark their animals as prescribed by the Animal Identification Act of 2002 (Act No. 6 of 2002). This, as marking animals “will help to avert stock theft”.

The department’s spokesperson, Hillary Mophete, says in a statement that the department, alongside the South African Police Services (SAPS), amongst other stakeholders, is making progress in dealing with stock-theft. However, she adds that stock theft still remains a persistent problem especially on farms situated on the borders of the Free State.

Mophete says this crime is hindering “the empowerment of especially emerging livestock owners and is a huge threat to their profitability”.

The following tips are provided by the department for livestock owners to take proper care of their animals and to prevent them from being stolen:

Make sure that fences and gates are kept in good condition.

Mark animals as prescribed by the Animal Identification Act, 2002 (Act No 6 of 2002).

Count livestock regularly.

Animals should be kraaled at night.

Keep proper livestock registers, and:

Make sure that livestock is properly looked after by herd boys that can be trusted.

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