Polokwane - Limpopo farmers have suffered an estimated R6 million in damages as a result of overflowing farm dams.
Provincial agriculture spokesperson, Kenny Mathivha, said most of the damage was recorded in the Mopani and Vhembe districts.
"Farmers have recorded their losses and costs since the beginning of torrential rains around November last year. The Capricorn, Sekhukhune and Waterberg districts have had their share of [flooding], but to a lesser degree," said Mathivha.
Mathivha said the department's technical advisory units that work on the ground had also been keeping track of damage incurred.
"The breakdown of structures began showing in the past two weeks. We cannot give an exact figure of infrastructural damage to farm lands, but it goes beyond several millions of rands," he said.
Mathivha said the department would not be able to compensate farmers, but would help rebuild infrastructure through several of its programmes. Support would include the provision of fertiliser supplies and rebuilding pump stations and fences.
He said the provincial disaster management team and the Joint Operation Centre, which includes all government departments, organised agriculture and other role players, were working hard to identify those most severely affected.
"We appreciate the fact that some farm workers are already receiving food parcels to assist them through this most difficult period," Mathivha said. "The department appreciates their patience and wishes to warn that before the rain stops, everything should be regarded as an emergency."
Affected farmers are urged to contact their nearest extension advisory office for any assistance.
Mathivha warned that after the rains, some animal diseases and other human infections may also break out.
"We therefore urge farmers to take their animals for inoculation and dipping regularly until the situation normalises," he said.
