South Africa steps up FMD fight as outbreaks remain widespread

Staff Reporter

SOUTH Africa is intensifying efforts to contain foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), with increased vaccination, improved regulations and closer cooperation between government, farmers and veterinary professionals beginning to show progress, although thousands of outbreaks remain active.

Speaking at a Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO) gathering, South Africa’s Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting farmers and strengthening the agricultural sector as the country continues to deal with the disease.

“We need you, as farmers, to assist us; your experience tells us what works on the ground,” Aucamp said, emphasising the importance of cooperation between government and the agricultural industry.

Veterinarian Dr Peter Evans said 13 FMD events had been recorded on the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) database since South Africa lost its FMD-free status in 2019. Eight of those events have been closed, while five remain open, largely because outbreaks are still active and affected farms remain under quarantine.