To: Knysna Executive Mayor - Cllr Thando Matika

We, the undersigned residents of Green Pastures, Eastford Vale, Eastford Cove, Eastford Country Estate, Simola and greater Knysna region respectfully request urgent municipal intervention regarding the serious and ongoing matter of cattle and goats that are increasingly roaming on national roads (N2 and Old Cape Road) and private properties in our community. 

We fully acknowledge and respect the cultural significance of cattle and goat ownership within our local traditions. However, the current situation is creating serious risks to safety. While we understand that the municipality is engaging with national departments to secure appropriate grazing land, this process will inevitably take time. In the interim, immediate measures are required to safeguard lives and property.

Motorists travelling on national roads are at daily risk of accidents, the cattle are at risk of serious injury, and residents are increasingly frustrated as their private spaces are damaged. We therefore respectfully urge the municipality to implement and enforce interim measures without delay, including: 

1. Clear enforcement of existing by-laws governing the management of keeping animals.

2. Immediate removal or impoundment of cattle found roaming on roads and private property.

3. Accountability of cattle herders, ensuring that they fulfil their responsibility to keep cattle safe and properly managed.

4. Engagement with community leaders to create awareness and shared solutions while longer-term land allocation is pursued.

We stress that our request is made with deep respect for cultural practices, but also with an equal responsibility to protect human life, prevent unnecessary accidents, and uphold the rights of all community members to safety and security.

The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated. Every day that passes without intervention increases the risk of a tragic incident.

We trust that the municipality will treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves and we look forward to your urgent action and response.

We, the undersigned, request urgent municipal action.