KZNDARD Strengthens Efforts to Contain FMD Outbreak in uMkhanyakude

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is intensifying efforts to contain the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak in the uMkhanyakude District. This ongoing vaccination drive is part of a broader strategy to protect livestock, safeguard farming communities, and prevent economic losses. Since the campaign began on Monday, March 30, veterinary teams have been working tirelessly to reach every corner of the district. On April 5, teams administered 17,189 doses across 19 dip tanks in the Jozini area, bringing the total vaccines administered in the district to 95,000. These efforts demonstrate the department’s commitment to proactive disease management and highlight the importance of coordinated responses to FMD outbreaks.

Veterinary teams have maintained a consistent presence on the ground, ensuring that livestock receive timely vaccinations and monitoring the health of animals in high-risk areas. The drive covers multiple dip tanks, including Mpileni, Nondabuya, and Mthaleni, where teams operate from early morning to reach as many farmers as possible. Each team is trained to follow strict biosecurity protocols to prevent the spread of FMD while administering vaccines. The comprehensive approach includes not only vaccination but also education for farmers on disease signs, reporting procedures, and the importance of hygiene and quarantine measures on their farms. This ensures a long-term reduction in the risk of new infections.

The Department’s MEC, Mrs Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, has urged all farmers in affected areas to cooperate fully with vaccination teams. Compliance with scheduled dates is critical to ensure that every animal receives protection. MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa emphasized that success in controlling the outbreak depends on collective effort. She also highlighted the need for farmers to strengthen on-farm biosecurity and immediately report any suspected cases. By working together, the department and livestock owners can safeguard herds, protect livelihoods, and maintain stability in the local agricultural economy.

The vaccination campaign is led by 20 dedicated teams who continue to operate across the district, following strict schedules and targeting all high-risk zones. These teams are responsible for not only administering vaccines but also providing guidance on disease prevention, record keeping, and monitoring animal health. Farmers receive clear instructions on how to manage their herds post-vaccination, ensuring maximum effectiveness of the campaign. The department’s strategic planning ensures that no dip tank is overlooked, and every livestock owner receives timely support. The coordinated effort underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the agricultural sector from the damaging effects of FMD.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s proactive vaccination campaign in uMkhanyakude is a critical measure to contain the FMD outbreak. The combined efforts of veterinary teams and farmers are essential to securing livestock health and sustaining local farming communities. Full cooperation from livestock owners, adherence to vaccination schedules, and strong on-farm biosecurity practices will determine the success of this campaign. With 95,000 doses already administered and teams working tirelessly across the district, the outlook for controlling the outbreak is positive. These actions reflect a determined and organized response, ensuring that the province’s agricultural sector remains resilient and productive.