By Greg Talbot, CEO, Tal-Tec
Branding livestock has been an essential practice in South Africa and the world for over 6,000 years. Serving as a means of identifying and tracking livestock. In South Africa, where livestock theft is a persistent challenge, branding remains a key tool in protecting farmers from significant financial losses. With the rise in stock theft, the debate around animal identification methods continues, balancing security, traceability, and animal welfare concerns.
The importance of branding in livestock security
Livestock theft in South Africa is a growing concern, costing farmers an estimated R1.4 billion each year. This criminal activity threatens the livelihoods of farmers, particularly in provinces like the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and the North West. In response, the South African government implemented the Animal Identification Act in 2002, requiring livestock owners to register identification marks for their animals. This…