Mandela estate commits to cattle care

Cape Town - Family of the late president Nelson Mandela have undertaken to ensure the welfare of cattle at his Qunu homestead in the Eastern Cape, the NSPCA said on Wednesday.

The farm animal protection unit of the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) recently inspected the cattle after concerns were raised.

National inspector Navesh Singh said grazing on the farm was exhausted and supplementary feeding, although not adequate, was provided.

He said remains of dead cattle were observed but did not seem recent.

The NSPCA made certain recommendations, including that the number of cattle be reduced and that mineral or protein licks be delivered.

Singh said inspectors would return to the farm next week to ensure compliance and provide further assistance as needed.

"Cognisance is taken of the remedial action completed and in progress. Necessary arrangements have been made for the welfare of the cattle and an undertaking has been given that this will be upheld and shall continue," he said.

He said Mandela's family and their representatives had been co-operative and the estate would cover all costs.

In August, the Sunday Times reported that the Eastern Cape government had employed veterinarians and provided food for 96 cattle.

Chief Mandla Mandela reportedly acknowledged the farm's situation and said his family was looking into possible solutions.

According to the report, his father stated in his will that the farming operations in Qunu should continue.

He was the honorary patron of the SPCA.

Mandela died on 5 December last year in Houghton, Johannesburg.