MEC Madoda Sambatha Leads Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccination Campaign and Supports Community Farmers in JB Marks Local Municipality

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development continues to strengthen livestock health and community farming through targeted interventions aimed at improving food security and rural livelihoods. On 3 July, MEC Madoda Sambatha led the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination campaign in Kgapamadi Section in Matlwang Village, outside Potchefstroom, as part of the Thuntsha Lerole programme currently taking place in the JB Marks Local Municipality. The initiative highlighted the provincial government’s commitment to protecting livestock, supporting farmers and building resilient agricultural communities. Alongside the vaccination campaign, the MEC also visited a local food production project where agricultural production inputs were handed over to community farmers. The day’s activities demonstrated a comprehensive approach that combines animal health, sustainable farming and community empowerment to improve the lives of residents across the province.

Foot-and-mouth disease remains one of the most significant animal diseases affecting the livestock sector, making prevention and control a priority for veterinary authorities. The highly contagious viral disease affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and pigs, and outbreaks can have serious economic consequences for farmers and the wider agricultural industry. Vaccination campaigns play a critical role in reducing the spread of the disease and protecting livestock from infection. By leading the campaign in Matlwang Village, MEC Sambatha reinforced the importance of proactive disease prevention measures that help maintain healthy livestock populations. Protecting animal health also supports food production, rural incomes and confidence within the livestock sector.

The Foot-and-Mouth Disease vaccination campaign formed part of the broader Thuntsha Lerole programme, a provincial government initiative that brings government services directly to communities. Through this programme, departments work together to address local challenges while ensuring that residents have access to essential public services. Including veterinary services within the programme reflects the recognition that agriculture remains a vital contributor to economic development and household wellbeing in many rural communities. Livestock farming provides food, income and employment for thousands of families across the North West Province. Strengthening disease prevention efforts therefore benefits not only individual farmers but also the broader rural economy.

Healthy livestock are essential for maintaining productive farming operations and ensuring a stable supply of meat, milk and other animal products. Disease outbreaks can reduce productivity, increase production costs and threaten the financial sustainability of farming households. Vaccination programmes help minimise these risks by strengthening herd immunity and reducing the likelihood of widespread infections. Veterinary officials also use these campaigns to educate livestock owners about disease prevention, biosecurity practices and the importance of reporting suspected cases promptly. This combination of vaccination and farmer education contributes to stronger animal health management across farming communities.

As part of the day’s programme, MEC Sambatha also visited a community food production project that is making a meaningful contribution to local food security. During the visit, he handed over essential agricultural production inputs to local farmers who are actively producing food for their households while generating income through the sale of surplus produce. These farmers are demonstrating how community agriculture can improve nutrition while creating opportunities for economic participation. Access to quality production inputs enables farmers to increase productivity, improve crop quality and expand their farming activities. Such support strengthens the long-term sustainability of community food production projects.

The agricultural production inputs distributed during the visit represent an important investment in the growth of local farming initiatives. Small-scale and emerging farmers often face challenges such as limited access to seeds, fertilisers, farming equipment and other essential resources. By providing these inputs, the Department helps remove some of the barriers that prevent communities from reaching their full agricultural potential. Increased production allows families to improve household food supplies while creating opportunities to earn additional income through local markets. This support contributes directly to stronger rural economies and improved living standards.

Community food production projects have become increasingly important in addressing food insecurity, particularly in rural areas where many households depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Growing vegetables and other crops allows families to reduce household food costs while improving dietary diversity and nutrition. Income generated from selling surplus produce can be used to pay for education, healthcare and other household expenses. These projects also encourage skills development, community cooperation and greater self-reliance. Continued government support helps ensure that local food producers remain productive and resilient despite economic and environmental challenges.

The Department’s ongoing investment in sustainable agriculture reflects its broader commitment to fighting poverty and creating lasting economic opportunities across the province. Supporting local farmers strengthens food systems while encouraging entrepreneurship within rural communities. Sustainable agricultural development also contributes to environmental stewardship by promoting responsible farming practices that protect natural resources for future generations. By empowering communities with practical resources and technical support, the Department is helping farmers build stronger and more resilient livelihoods. These efforts align with the provincial government’s vision of inclusive growth that benefits communities at every level.

The activities led by MEC Madoda Sambatha on 3 July demonstrate how integrated agricultural programmes can deliver meaningful benefits for both livestock farmers and crop producers. The Foot-and-Mouth Disease vaccination campaign protects valuable livestock resources while the distribution of agricultural production inputs supports food production and income generation among local farming households. Together, these initiatives strengthen food security, promote sustainable agriculture and improve economic opportunities within rural communities. By continuing to invest in animal health, farmer support and community development, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is helping ensure that no family is left behind on the path towards shared prosperity. The combination of disease prevention, agricultural support and community empowerment provides a strong foundation for a more resilient and productive agricultural sector in the province.