South Africa Launches National FMD Vaccination Programme for Farmers

South African livestock farmers are set to benefit from a nationwide foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccination campaign. The Department of Agriculture has ordered 2 million vaccine doses from the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI), with the first shipments expected this month. The campaign is scheduled to gain momentum in January 2026, targeting the national herd.

Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen confirmed that the vaccination plan follows a phased approach, designed to protect livestock and restore South Africa’s FMD-free status. The strategy mirrors successful programmes in countries like Brazil and Argentina, focusing on vaccination rather than relying solely on movement restrictions.

From February 2026, BVI will deliver 1 million doses per month. In addition, the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has developed a single-dose vaccine, which has completed final testing. Production is set to begin in the first quarter of 2026. Farmers will have access to both vaccines, providing flexibility and improved protection across herds.

Livestock producers are encouraged to prepare for the rollout by ensuring all animals are registered and accessible for vaccination. Herds should be monitored closely for signs of FMD, including excessive salivation, lameness, or lesions around the mouth and hooves. Farmers should also continue strict biosecurity measures, including limiting movement of animals, disinfecting equipment, and reporting suspected cases immediately.

The government recognises that past control measures, including restricted zones and roadblocks, have been insufficient. Animals have continued to move across boundaries, increasing the risk of outbreaks. The new approach emphasises herd vaccination and coordinated cooperation between farmers and veterinary authorities.

The vaccination campaign will allow South Africa to approach the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) for FMD-free status with vaccination. Achieving this status will reopen export opportunities for meat products, boosting farm incomes. Once the outbreak is under control nationally, vaccination will continue in endemic areas where buffalo populations maintain the disease.

Successful implementation relies on farmers working closely with government and private veterinarians. Ensuring timely vaccination, maintaining biosecurity, and reporting suspected cases will protect herds, minimise production losses, and strengthen the livestock sector. The national herd vaccination programme represents a major step in safeguarding cattle productivity and the long-term viability of South African livestock farming.