Representatives of the Makhado Air Force Base (MAFB) visited the Sinthumule traditional authority on Friday, to inform the communities on the dangers of stray animals on the roads.

The aim of the campaign is to create a platform of debate with the council, the community and cattle farmers in particular, in order to find an answer to the problem of cattle, goats and sheep roaming the roads.

These animals are the main cause of road accidents in the area, said the communications officer of the MAFB, Sgt Thomas Mulaudzi. “We're currently experiencing a problem of cattle entering into our land (air force grounds) from the Sinthumule area,” said Mulaudzi. “We therefore advise cattle owners to consider taking precautionary measures with the safety of their animals,”

He added that, with this campaign, they hoped to avoid the straying of animals and unnecessary loss of lives of people as a result of cars' getting involved in accidents with stray animals.

Mulaudzi attributed these to the lack of cattle kraals at homes, the unavailability of grazing camps (land), the stealing of state property (fences) leading to open spaces, and cattle negligence. “Some of the solutions we suggest are for the farmers to start building safe places at home for their cattle in order to prevent these cattle from straying,” Mulaudzi continued.

“We'll also sent a proposal to the municipality to assist with enough space for grazing. Fences also need to be erected within the parameters of the main roads.”

A call was also made on farmers to at least appoint herd boys to look after their cattle at all times. At the same time, motorists have been advised to drive with care.

“We wish to promote good neighbourliness, friendship and good community relations with all the chiefs and residents living within the Makhado Municipality,” said Mulaudzi.

Khosi Vho-Rudzani Sinthumule welcomed the suggestions and proposals put forward by the MAFB and said he would send the message to all his villages. “We believe that subsequent meeting with the Department of Land Affairs, the municipality and all cattle owners might lead to fruitful results,” said Khosi Vho-Sinthumule.