WARNING – Graphic images: Highveld farmers suffer great losses

The Highveld was on fire on 28 and 29 August due to raging fires fueled by strong winds of up to 60 to 65km/h.

Farmers from Standerton, Charl Cilliers, Trichardt, Bethal and all the way to Ermelo are in serious trouble as they were hit hard.

In most cases all their grazing has burnt down and the extent of the damage to property and the number of animals that perished are not yet known.

Some are now also without water.

They are desperately in need of hay bales, salves like Bactorban, bandages, in some cases clothes and water.

In a DA  statement, Bosman Grobler MPL, spokesperson for cooperative governance and traditional affairs, said: “The past 48 hours have been devastating for the rural and farming communities of Mpumalanga.

“On Thursday the South African Weather Bureau issued fire warnings for large parts of Mpumalanga.

“Despite fire brigades, firefighting teams and members of the community across the province being on high alert, the fires ravaged areas across the province. The areas most severely affected at this stage seem to be the farming areas around Bethal and Carolina.

“The DA takes note of the fact that fires scorched through the province on Friday. Reports received thus far indicate huge losses to grazing fields, bales and other stored feed for animals. Further reports indicate losses of equipment sheds, equipment like tractors and other farming equipment.

“At this stage there is also an unconfirmed loss of one life.  The the MEC of CoGTA, Refilwe Mtsweni, to instruct the disaster  management unit toimmediately intervene and help communities who have been affected.

“The DA will also request MEC of  Agriculture, Andries Gamede, to investigate the affect the fires will have on the agriculture sector, and aid where needed. The DA is extremely concerned that huge losses in the agriculture sector may lead to farmers not being able to cover their input costs.

“This can lead to lower production of sustenance, which is a threat to food security. Job losses, lower input in local markets and higher debt will all have an influence on the local economy of Mpumalanga.

“Local councillors will visit affected areas during the course of the weekend take note of all the damages and needs which will be handed to the relevant MECs .”