Stock theft remains one of the most devastating threats to South Africa’s livestock farmers—threatening not just cattle, but generations of bloodlines, livelihoods, and the legacy of farm life itself.
“Stock theft is rife,” confirms Coert Jordaan, chair of Rural Safety on the Agri EC board. “It’s not just isolated cases—it’s syndicates stealing dozens of animals at a time.”
These syndicates are highly organised, and the losses are heavy—financially, emotionally, and genetically. For farmers invested in premium bloodlines like our prized Ankole cattle, the impact is especially severe.
Even more concerning? Many farmers don’t report the crimes, often citing slow police response times and a lack of follow-through by stock theft units. Some cases are only attended to days later—if at all.
Farmers are stepping in where law enforcement has fallen short, investing millions in private security patrols, perimeter fencing, and surveillance systems. But there’s only so much private response teams can do without proper support or legal authority to act.
Our beliefs
At Cattle Group Farming, we believe protecting our livestock is not just about safeguarding assets—it’s about defending a legacy.
Every Ankole calf born is the product of years of dedication, and every breeder’s dream depends on the safety of that herd.
We echo the call for SAPS to treat stock theft as a priority crime, and we urge every stakeholder—government, community, and farmer—to work together in protecting the future of South African agriculture.
FARM-SMART SAFETY TIPS TO REDUCE STOCK THEFT RISK:
Maintain fences and secure all gates.
Brand all livestock according to law.
Count and inspect stock regularly.
Install CCTV or motion detection lights.
Report all suspicious activity—immediately.
Vet employees and contractors carefully.
Join local farm watch or rural safety groups.
Together, we can protect what matters most: our land, our animals, and our legacy.
Original article by
By Octavia Avesca Spandiel;
Cultural Significance:
Ankole cattle are more than livestock; they are cultural icons.
Their distinct appearance, characterized by the iconic long, curved horns, carries cultural and historical significance.
Preserving the Ankole breed is not just an agricultural imperative but also a commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage.
Sustainable Farming Practices:
The balanced frame and good bodily proposition of Ankole cattle align with the principles of sustainable farming. Their adaptability to diverse environments and their efficient feed utilisation contribute to the promotion of eco-friendly and sustainable agricultural practices. As the global agricultural landscape emphasizes sustainability, the Ankole breed emerges as a valuable ally in this endeavor.
Genetic Diversity:
Conserving Ankole cattle ensures the preservation of genetic diversity within the cattle population.
This is vital for the overall resilience of the global cattle industry.
By maintaining diverse breeds like Ankole, farmers contribute to the health and adaptability of the broader genetic pool, mitigating risks associated with disease and environmental changes.
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