Scam alert to drought-affected farmers

The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) alerted drought-affected farmers about a scammer who asks farmers to pay him R20 000 to secure a cash grant of R270 000 for drought relief from the department.

DAFF emphasised that drought-affected farmers are assisted by service providers who are appointed by the provincial Departments of Agriculture to distribute animal feed.  Farmers are responsible for collecting the assistance relief goods (such as animal feed) from the various depots at local agricultural offices. Farmers are also allowed to group themselves and   procure diesel/petrol to collect the animal feed from the various depots.

DAFF stated “Farmers are therefore warned to remain alert and never pay money to any individual promising them assistance. The department would never make farmers pay for drought relief grants.” For more information contact Steve Galane at 083 635 7346 or send an email to SteveGAL@daff.gov.za .