BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LOBAMBA – Thousands of livestock farmers across Eswatini could soon receive stronger legal protection against stock theft as Government prepares to introduce a new Stock Theft Bill designed to tackle increasingly sophisticated livestock crime and safeguard one of the country’s most valuable agricultural assets.
The proposed legislation comes as a beacon of hope for farming families who have watched years of hard work disappear through organised livestock theft. For many rural households, cattle and goats are far more than animals – they represent food security, school fees, household income, savings for emergencies and a family’s entire livelihood.
Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka announced the development during the debate on the Ministry of Agriculture’s First Quarter Performance Report in Parliament on Tuesday.
He revealed that the draft Bill is currently undergoing legal scrutiny at the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs before it is tabled in Parliament for debate and approval.
The Minister explained that the current Stock Theft Act of 1982 has become outdated and no longer provides sufficient protection against modern livestock crime, which has evolved into organised criminal operations.
“The current law is old and does not adequately protect our farmers. The new Bill is now with the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and it will be brought before Parliament,” Tshawuka told Members of Parliament.
A Lifeline for Farming Communities
The proposed legislation is expected to provide renewed confidence for farmers who continue investing in livestock production despite the persistent threat of theft.
Livestock farming remains one of the pillars of Eswatini’s agricultural sector, supporting thousands of families through cattle, goat, sheep and other animal production. Besides generating income, livestock plays a vital role in cultural ceremonies, traditional practices and household wealth.
For many small-scale farmers, losing even one animal can wipe out years of investment. Beyond the immediate financial loss, stolen livestock can disrupt breeding programmes, reduce household income and force families to abandon farming altogether.
Millions Lost to Stock Theft
Government statistics show that livestock worth more than E20.5 million was stolen during one reporting period, while animals valued at over E17.5 million were never recovered.
Cattle have suffered the greatest losses, with more than 11 600 reported stolen, while over 22 300 goats have also been taken.
These figures illustrate the significant economic impact stock theft continues to have on rural communities and the agricultural sector.
Modern Criminal Networks
Authorities believe stock theft has evolved beyond isolated incidents into organised criminal enterprises.
According to Government, many cases are linked to cross-border syndicates that transport stolen livestock into neighbouring South Africa and Mozambique, making recovery increasingly difficult and reducing the likelihood of farmers recovering their valuable animals.
Strengthening the Law
The existing Stock Theft Act already criminalises the unlawful possession of livestock without proof of ownership, the sale of animals without proper documentation and the slaughter of livestock without the necessary permits. It also provides for imprisonment and compensation for affected livestock owners.
However, Government believes these provisions no longer adequately address the methods employed by organised stock theft syndicates.
The new Bill is therefore expected to modernise the legal framework, strengthen investigations and prosecutions, improve protection for livestock owners and create a more effective deterrent against stock theft.
Boosting Agricultural Growth
The proposed legislation also aligns with Government’s broader objective of strengthening agricultural production and improving food security.
By providing stronger legal protection for farmers, authorities hope to encourage greater investment in livestock farming, improve confidence within the agricultural sector and reduce financial losses caused by livestock crime.
If enacted by Parliament, the new Stock Theft Bill is expected to become an important milestone in protecting Eswatini’s farmers, preserving rural livelihoods and ensuring that agriculture continues to contribute meaningfully to national economic growth.
(Courtesy Pic)
