The departmental spokesperson, Sputnik Ratau, says the decision comes after a huge amount of inflows was experienced because of the recent downpours. The Vaal Dam - which supplies most parts of Gauteng – stood at 110,5% while Bloemhof Dam was at 106,9%. Ratau further warned downstream communities and farmers about the imminent increase of the outflow from the dams.

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has recently cautioned all farmers in the province, making them aware of the recent outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) across many parts of South Africa. According to State Veterinarian Dr Vivien Malan, animals can spread the disease without showing any clinical signs of FMD, as they shed the virus before any signs of the disease can be seen. Malan says sick animals get blisters and sores in the mouth and on the feet, making it difficult for animals to eat and walk, often causing drooling. As a result, farmers lose money because sick animals lose weight, and do not grow. They essentially produce less milk. Young calves may also die.

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This year's Bloem Show was officially launched with a full programme to look forward to. Elmarie Prinsloo, CEO of Bloem Show, says the past two years have been challenging as the Covid-19 pandemic and restrictions prevented the show from taking place. Now, after two years of not taking place in all its glory, visitors can expect a full programme that caters to young and old. Some of the highlights to look forward to are the livestock stud championships and exhibitions, which include the Mutton Marino National Super Top 10 Ram Show, amongst others. The much-missed Bloem Show will kick off at the Bloemfontein Showgrounds on 27 April and end on 7 May.

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