Roaming cattle cause another crash in Knysna

KNYSNA NEWS - Another road accident involving a cow occurred on Monday evening, reinforcing the seriousness of the threat caused to motorists by free-roaming cattle.

The accident, involving a white Toyota Starlet, took place at about 20:00 at the turn-off to George Rex Drive. The driver sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical care.

Southern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies confirmed that an accident report has been registered.

This comes within a few weeks of an earlier incident on Tuesday 29 July, when a vehicle collided with a cow on the N2 near Nekkies. These recurring accidents have sparked renewed concern over road safety and public well-being.

Municipality takes action
In response to the growing crisis, Knysna Municipality called an emergency meeting, and a stakeholder engagement session was held on Monday 4 August. The aim of the session was to establish a co-ordinated and sustainable solution to the persistent issue of unattended livestock, particularly cattle, roaming public roads and urban spaces.

“One of the core challenges is that many local farmers lack access to proper land and infrastructure for managing their livestock,” said Mayor Thando Matika.

“We are working with national departments to explore long-term support options that will benefit both farmers and the wider community.”

Despite efforts to address the issue, cattle continue to roam freely, and no clear resolution has yet been communicated by the municipality.

Task team
In a media release, DA Councillor Sharon Sabbagh announced she has been appointed by the Municipal Manager, Lulamile Mapholoba, to serve on the newly formed roaming livestock task team. However, finalisation of the task team is being delayed, as subsistence farmers have yet to appoint five representatives.

The next meeting is scheduled for today, Friday 22 August, and Sabbagh has warned that further delays will not be tolerated.

She confirmed that impounding of roaming livestock will begin on Monday 25 August, under the direction of Community Services.

Knysna-Plett Herald asked the municipality for comment on the forming of the task team. When their reply is received, it will be added.

Residents on the Knysna Community Info WhatsApp Group often warn group members of free-roaming livestock. These goats were recently seen on George Rex Drive, in the vicinity of Monday's incident. Photo: Knysna Community Info Whatsapp group.