Severe drought in the eastern Free State has raised alarm for both farmers and residents. Dihlabeng Municipality is among the areas hardest hit by the dry spell and severe heat.

The water level of the Caledon River is at 30%, said municipal spokesperson Tshediso Maitse, urging residents to save water. “We request that all members of the community start immediately using water more sparingly.”

‘We don’t have enough grass for the animals’

He added the municipality’s water supply is also under pressure beacuse of the very low level of water flow at the Meiringskloof Dam, due to the lack of rain. Should the problem persist, water trucks will be deployed to Mashaeng and Fouriesburg residents.

Local farmer Maphale Moloi said the heatwave also harms livestock. “We don’t have enough grass for the animals. Grass doesn’t grow as expected, so we have to buy extra food for the animals. We also struggle with water for the animals because the rivers are dry.” 

These challenges may lead to higher food prices in the upcoming winter period, he added.

OFM News/Thumelo Khotha Christine/Dane/Morné