Farmer Commits Suicide Over Drought

The drought in the Eastern Cape has claimed its first victim after a farmer killed himself.

Krisjan Kruger, 34, was a cattle and maize farmer in Elliott. He allegedly told a neighbour he was suffering from depression because of the drought.. He feared he would lose his farm which he grew up on. He shot himself with a rifle.

South Africa has been experiencing hotter than normal weather conditions caused by a stronger than normal El Niño condition.

The lack of rainfall and high temperatures has caused dry conditions across the country. The Free State is one of the provinces hardest hit by the drought.

“This is so very very sad. There are many people who have lost, or are losing everything because of this crippling drought, the worst in living memory,” said Caroline can Saasen, founder of Water Shortage South Africa.

The group was set up last week to help co-ordinate the distribution of water for desperate people.

“It is astounding to see the support from every corner of South Africa. This is a life-and-death situation. It affects every single person in South Africa. We do what we can to offer the gift of water, “ Saasen said.

Water Shortage SA has already distributed over 15 000 litres of water in containers.