Ninh Thuan works to save cattle from drought

Due to severe drought, the province has had to move cattle to other places to find water and food supply. As cattle is their main source of income, this has caused difficulties.

There is not much left for cattle on this dry grass field. Since the beginning of this month, livestock in Ninh Thuan province has suffered from severe drought. Cactus has become the main food supply for livestock here.

"There is no food for my cattle. So they have to eat whatever they can find here", said Nao Thi Kim Tam.

The biggest concern of the local people is water supply for the cattle. They have to take their cattle far away but they find little water. Over 1,000 cattle in the province died due to drought last year. The locals also had difficulty finding ways to save them. Therefore, this year, they considered moving their cattle to other places.

"I take my cattle into the woods. When the harvest season comes, I bring them back here", said Ba No.

3,500 cattle in Thuan Nam and Thuan Bac, the most affected districts, have been moved to places that can provide them with food and water since March. With only a quarter of water left in the province’s 20 reservoirs, cattle are prioritised to use water after residents.

"Moving cattle has to be carried out in an appropriate way. Before residents move their cattle, local authorities check specific guidelines. Also, we asked sub-departments of animal health to help in healthcare and disease prevention for cattle", said Phan Quang Thuu, Vice Director of Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ninh Thuan Province.

The drought is expected to last until August and September, which requires more support to save 300 cattle herds in Ninh Thuan province.