Roma Farmers Reeling as Lumpy Skin Disease Claims Cattle

Roma

Roma farmers are facing mounting losses as lumpy skin disease spreads rapidly across the area, killing livestock and deepening anxiety among small-scale cattle owners. More than 30 cattle are reported to have died so far, with fears that the toll could rise as access to vaccines and treatment remains constrained.

One of the affected farmers, Malefane Raletsela from Ha Mafefooane, told this publication that he has already lost three cows, including calves. He said the disease has swept through kraals in the area, affecting not only his herd but those of neighbouring farmers as well.

“This disease has killed many of my cattle, and those of our neighbours,” Raletsela said. “We are watching animals die almost helplessly.”

Raletsela said he is aware of at least 15 other farmers in surrounding villages who have also lost cattle in recent weeks. For many households in Roma, cattle are not only a source of income but a form of savings and social security, making the losses particularly devastating.

Farmers have also expressed frustration over the cost of vaccination. According to Raletsela, farmers are being charged M200 per cow, about USD12.50, for the vaccine. He said the fee is beyond the reach of many livestock owners, especially those with larger herds.

“My understanding was that government would be considerate during this period,” he said. “The M200 they are charging is extremely steep. The majority of us simply cannot afford M200 per animal.”

Lumpy skin disease is a viral disease that affects cattle, causing fever, skin nodules, reduced milk production and, in severe cases, death. Outbreaks often spread quickly, particularly where vaccination coverage is low and animal movement is difficult to control.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition has acknowledged challenges in responding to the outbreak. The ministry has reported a shortage of lumpy skin disease medication, which has hampered efforts to contain the spread.

Mr Lereko Masupha, the ministry’s Chief Information Officer, confirmed the shortage. He said medication that had previously been collected from unaffected districts and redistributed to areas experiencing outbreaks has now been depleted.

“The rate of infection is increasing,” Masupha said. “This has forced the ministry to prioritise affected districts while we wait for new supplies.”

Masupha said the ministry is in the process of procuring additional lumpy skin disease medication and vaccines. He assured farmers that distribution would begin immediately once the supplies become available.

“The Ministry is purchasing lumpy skin medication and will distribute it as soon as it is available,” he said.

In the meantime, farmers in Roma say they are left counting their losses and hoping for urgent intervention. Many are calling for subsidised or free vaccination during the outbreak, warning that without swift action, the disease could wipe out herds that families have built up over decades.