2023-10-27 16:28:19
Africa has set up a $184 million program to compensate poultry farmers affected by the avian flu epidemic, which has led to the slaughter or death of more than five million birds in recent months .
Deputy President Paul Mashatile told the National Council of Provinces in Cape Town on Thursday that the fund was intended to compensate livestock farmers for losses suffered.
“This program represents approximately $184 million. Farmers affected by bird flu will therefore receive assistance from this fund,” explained M Mashatile.
In particular, the government recommended that all affected farmers, particularly smallholders, be compensated, Mr. Mashatile said.
The disease has affected poultry farmers in eight of South Africa’s nine provinces, with the exception of the Northern Cape.
The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) said losses to poultry farmers had exceeded $97.4 million and were growing.
SAPA has warned against the disappearance of farms as long as the disease continues to rage in the country.
NM/jn/fss/te/APA
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