The festive season is a time of great concern when it comes to the safety of South African farmers.
“The time of year increases farm attacks and crime on farms. There are those who commit robbery and theft to get something for the festive season,” said Maj. Gen. Chris van Zyl, TLU SA’s deputy general manager.
“Safety during the festive season is a very important issue and one that causes great concern.”
Since November, several attacks and murders on farms nationwide in South Africa have been reported. A clear increase can be seen.
According to media reports, there were nine farm murders in the Free State in the last three months of 2020.
So far, there have been three farm murders in the Free State since mid-November. Attacks have also been reported in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
One of the main reasons for the increase is the assumption that farmers have large amounts of cash with them this time of year to pay wages and the like.
“Cash is definitely a big problem. Using a digital payment system is the solution, but geographical factors, access to stores, how to get there and the time it takes are some of the major challenges to implementation. There is a perception that there is a lot of cash, firearms and tradable goods on every farm.”
Maj. Gen. Van Zyl also warns against cash transactions for the purchase of livestock.
“Then there is a decrease in vigilance and preparedness – after all, it is holiday time – and then victims are disillusioned and surprised.”
However, there are not only warnings, but also advice from TLU SA’s side for farmers during this time.
“I must emphasize how important involvement in your immediate environment is during this time. You can and may not live in isolation. Remember, your neighbour is your nearest source of help.
“TLU SA is a strong supporter of the farm guard system where volunteers work together to be of service to each other. Rural security works best when there is cooperation between agricultural unions and the key role players. This is clear from examples in Mpumalanga, Limpopo and the Northwest where formal co-operation agreements are in place.”
Maj. Gen. Van Zyl also refers to the role of organised agriculture in the fight against farm attacks.
“Different agricultural unions must find each other and take a common stand, because lives and property are at stake. We cannot refer to it as mere theft. We must not underestimate theft.”
He also refers to TLU SA’s work on the long-term consequences of farm attacks. “We have access to a trauma network to help those who have been victims of farm attacks on the road to recovery.”
Read about more farm attacks here
Read the original article in Afrikaans on TLU SA
