Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, accompanied by North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Madoda Sambatha, recently led a targeted cattle vaccination campaign in Rysmierbult, where hundreds of cattle were immunised to control the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).
According to the provincial department, the visit was part of the government’s broader
strategy to manage livestock disease outbreaks and safeguard the agricultural sector.The Minister and MEC also engaged with local farmers, livestock owners, and community leaders to address their concerns and provide updates on control measures, biosecurity protocols, and the significance of early detection.
During the initial phase of the campaign, nearly 300 communal cattle were vaccinated by veterinary teams deployed to the region.
This intervention aims to preserve livestock health, bolster food security, and protect the rural economy from the adverse effects of FMD.
Addressing the farmers, Steenhuisen cautioned about the serious repercussions if the outbreak is not contained.
“Foot-and-mouth disease is not just a veterinary issue; it is an economic threat. If left unmanaged, it can destabilise rural livelihoods and undermine national food security. We must act swiftly and collectively,” said Steenhuisen.
He urged all stakeholders, including farmers, officials, and communities, to collaborate in reporting symptoms, adhering to containment protocols, and supporting vaccination efforts.
Sambatha echoed the call for vigilance and cooperation, urging farmers to report any unusual symptoms without delay.
“Collaboration with state officials is vital to halting the spread of this disease,“ the MEC emphasised.
Farmers welcomed the initiative and pledged to work with government representatives to ensure the safety of their herds and communities.
The department has stressed the importance for farmers to monitor their cattle for signs of FMD.
These include excessive drooling, sores or blisters in the mouth or on the feet, limping or reluctance to walk, and decreased appetite.
In addition, some cows may produce less milk or appear tired and uncomfortable.
“If farmers notice any of these symptoms, they should report them to veterinary officials immediately. Acting quickly can help stop the disease from spreading and protect other animals in the area.”
In addition, the department reiterated its commitment to supporting affected areas with resources, technical expertise and surveillance, and continues to coordinate efforts with national and provincial partners to ensure a unified response.
Meanwhile, on 1 September 2025, the Minister announced the formation of the FMD task team, led by the Department of Agriculture in partnership with the private sector, marking an essential step in the battle against FMD to protect the beef industry.
The task team will report directly to the value chain roundtables, which convene all stakeholders in the livestock sector.
In a media briefing, Steenhuisen confirmed that 900 000 vaccine doses valued at R72 million had been procured from the Botswana Vaccine Institute for the current financial year.
The Minister noted that the first 500 000 doses arrived in June and were utilised to vaccinate cattle in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Gauteng, North West, and Free State.
About two weeks ago, the country received the remaining 400 000 doses, of which 50 000 have already been distributed.
He indicated that the remaining doses of the vaccine will be allocated to provinces currently experiencing active outbreaks, including Free State, Mpumalanga, North West, and Gauteng.
The Minister told the media that there are currently 274 unresolved outbreaks across KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State, North West, and Mpumalanga.
Positive cases have been confirmed across all cattle farming systems, encompassing commercial beef herds, animal breeding, feedlots, dairy cattle, and communal herds. – SAnews.gov.za
No comments:
Post a Comment