Nicosia, Cyprus. Livestock farmers across Cyprus are struggling with the emotional aftermath of mass culling carried out to contain foot-and-mouth disease. Among them is farmer Sotiris Kadis, who says he now visits his farm daily despite having lost more than 1,000 animals.
Farmers confront empty holdings
Kadis said that for the first time in his life there are no animals waiting for him at his farm. He said he unlocks the gates, walks through the yard and sits among the empty pens where hundreds of sheep once stood.
He described the experience as “soul wrenching” and said he could not wait until the time comes when animals return to the farm.
Wider impact across Cyprus
Kadis is one of dozens of livestock farmers whose herds have been destroyed as part of disease control efforts. According to the article, 80,000 animals have been culled so far and 121 units have been affected across Cyprus.
For many farmers, livestock raising is part of a family tradition spanning generations. The loss of herds therefore represents not only an economic blow but also the disappearance of a family history built over two or three generations.
Mental health concerns
The impact has also extended beyond farmers to the veterinarians responsible for carrying out the culls. The article said that while government compensation mechanisms and control measures have been made highly visible, less attention has been given to a mental health support programme established specifically for those affected.
Kadis said psychological support had been mentioned, but added that attitudes in Cyprus make it difficult for many farmers to accept such help. He said his whole family was struggling after witnessing the culling and that their spirits were very low.
He said the effects of culling do not end once the animals are removed, adding that farmers are not simply fine after the process is completed.
