The event, attended by farmers from across the province, was hosted by both the national and provincial Department of Agriculture with the purpose of addressing challenges posed by Foot and Mouth Disease, other animal diseases and stock theft.

Departmental officials also demonstrated how to execute alien and thorn tree control through screening machines provided by the department through farmer support allocation. The farmers were, among others, shown how to grind the alien thorns into animal feed.

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Alien trees are foreign trees, which reproduce and spread rapidly, taking valuable water and space from indigenous plants. The only advantages to this type of vegetation are the provision of firewood for local communities and the resources it provides for animal species.

Agriculture MEC Thabo Mokone, was the main guest speaker at the event, with officials and animal disease experts sharing valuable information for farmers to stay on top of their game where diseases are concerned. Various stalls by farmers and stakeholders showcased their products.