Goats replace cows in South Africa: Here's why
Goats are replacing cows in Limpopo, South Africa’s northernmost province, as farmers struggle with worsening droughts caused by climate change.
Although cattle have long been a symbol of wealth and tradition in the region, sometimes being used as bride price, the changing climate is making it harder to keep these animals.
The province is now struggling to adapt to the changing climate as staple crops continue to be threatened.
Limpopo has always been dry, but the droughts are getting worse. A UN official called the current drought in southern Africa the worst in 100 years.
The change in livestock farming forms part of efforts by farmers to explore more viable ways of farming amidst the drought.
Majority of them can’t afford irrigation or modern technology and therefore still depend on rain.
“Goats are more climate resilient. They can survive on less grass and even eat acacia trees,” Kingsley Ayisi, director of the University of Limpopo’s Centre for Global Change was quoted as saying.
Climate change in Limpopo is not only affecting animals, crops like maize are also being affected as farmers are advised to move to other crops like sorghum.
Ayisi says solutions like shade nets to protect crops and better water management could help. But these require money and government support, both of which are in short supply.
South Africa loses nearly half of its water through leaks, theft, or unpaid bills, according to reports. Rich countries have promised to help fund climate adaptation, but the money is far less than what poorer countries say they need.
A government official suggested the region should focus on industries like logistics, banking, or public services, which don’t need as much water but this would be difficult in a province with limited infrastructure and education.
