The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) is set to hold its fourth annual Smithfield Commonage Livestock Auction this Thursday.
DARD provincial spokesperson Zimasa Leputla says the auction is part of the department’s efforts to control livestock numbers and minimise overgrazing on farms.
“The auction is also aimed at providing a platform for communal farmers to sell off their cattle in order to minimise the impact of drought,” she said.
The auction will be hosted jointly with the Smithfield Landcare Committee.
The auction will be held at the Smithfield Commonages from 11:00 to 14:00.
About 96 cross-bred cattle will be auctioned.
Leputla said this year’s Smithfield Commonage Livestock Auction Sale promises to be bigger and better as it will not only focus on the auction but will run parallel with a farmers’ information session.
“The department has opened doors for local livestock farmers who are interested in selling their cattle to participate in the auction so that they can make a profit and be stimulated to enter the livestock market,” said the spokesperson.
“This is also a great opportunity for different sector leaders to network for purposes of economic activities and development,” she added.
The auction is managed by the OVK Group. – Staff Reporter