“Those who deliberately move animals illegally, conceal infections, or ignore restrictions threaten the recovery of the entire sector,” Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen said. “Where there is wilful non-compliance, we will work with law-enforcement authorities and the full might of the law will be applied.”
The war against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in South Africa has reached a critical turning point. This week, Minister Steenhuisen oversaw the arrival of the first consignment of one million high-potency FMD vaccines at OR Tambo International Airport. While the influx of medical supplies offers a glimmer of hope for a weary livestock sector, the Minister’s message remains clear: vaccines are only half the solution; strict legal compliance is the other.
A Massive Logistics Operation
The arrival of these doses from Biogénesis Bagó in Argentina marks the beginning of a sustained supply pipeline. By the end of March, over five million vaccines are expected to enter the country, sourced from international partners in Argentina, Botswana (BVI), and Turkey (Dollvet).
Locally, the Agriculture Research Council (ARC) is ramping up production. Currently producing 20,000 doses per week, the ARC plans to scale up to 200,000 doses per week by 2027, ensuring long-term biosecurity for South African farmers.
Provincial Distribution Strategy
With outbreaks reported across all nine provinces, the Department has shifted from targeted response to a broader suppression strategy. The initial million doses are being distributed based on risk and impact:
| Province | Vaccine Doses |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 200,000 |
| Free State | 200,000 |
| Eastern Cape | 150,000 |
| Mpumalanga / North West / Limpopo | 100,000 each |
| Gauteng | 70,000 |
| Northern Cape | 50,000 |
| Western Cape | 30,000 |
Beyond the Needle: Law is Non-Negotiable
While the Department provides the tools for recovery, Minister Steenhuisen issued a stern warning: the wilful non-compliance of a few threatens the livelihood of many.
“Quarantine rules, movement permits, and biosecurity measures exist to protect every farmer in the country,” he emphasized.
The path to restoring South Africa’s internationally recognized disease-free status relies on three key pillars:
- Vaccination: Suppressing viral circulation in high-risk regions.
- Diagnostics and Traceability: Strengthening the ability to track animal health.
- Movement Control: Strict enforcement of quarantine boundaries.
Recovery at Farm Level
The dairy sector, in particular, has faced immense strain and significant production losses. In a show of solidarity, Minister Steenhuisen is scheduled to visit Mooi River in KwaZulu-Natal on 27 February to vaccinate dairy cattle alongside local veterinarians.
This visit is more than a medical procedure—it symbolizes the transition from crisis management to active control. As the Minister noted, every vaccinated herd represents stability returning to businesses, wages returning to workers, and milk returning to shelves.
Farmers are urged to stay informed through official channels and utilize the FMD Support Line for guidance on movement permits and infection reporting.
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