The state-owned farm, which houses approximately 700 animals, has become the centre of controversy following allegations raised by DA MPL Hendriette van Huyssteen. 

She recently claimed that the animals at Armoedsvlakte were suffering from severe undernutrition due to insufficient feed supplies. According to her, the farm requires 2,028 bags of cattle feed, cattle lick, and salt annually, which are essential for maintaining the livestock’s health.

However, she claimed that only 360 bags had been procured so far this year, which amounts to 18% of the necessary quantity to ensure the animals’ well-being.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has denied the allegations, describing them as “entirely baseless, deceptive, and devoid of truth.” 

According to spokesperson Khuthala Tshangela, the department has never failed to provide adequate nutrition for the animals at Armoedsvlakte or any other state-owned farm.

‘Urged the public and stakeholders to rely on verified information’

“The department ensures the equitable allocation of resources across all research farms in the province. In addition to the feed procured earlier this year, a new purchase order has been issued to supplement supplies further. This reinforces our unwavering commitment to ensuring uninterrupted livestock nutrition.”

The department is working diligently to ensure that its livestock is properly cared for, said Tshangela, and urged the public and stakeholders to rely on verified information when discussing the operations of state-owned farms.

“This kind of reckless misinformation not only misguides the public but also deliberately undermines the department’s integrity and the vital work being done to advance agricultural development and food security in the province.”

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh