Authorities Urge Mbozisa Village Farmers to Stop Unsafe Foot and Mouth Disease Treatments

Farmers in Mbozisa Village, Mqanduli, have been strongly urged to immediately stop using petrol and madubula as treatments for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), following growing concern over unsafe practices being applied to infected livestock and those suspected of having the disease. Suspected FMD cases have been reported in the area, prompting authorities to warn against dangerous home remedies.

Officials expressed alarm that some farmers were mixing petrol with madubula, while others used rough salt and traditional beer in attempts to treat infected cattle. The Department of Agriculture (DoA) highlighted that such methods can worsen animal health and pose serious risks to both livestock and humans handling them.

During an awareness session, Litha Gqokoma, Controller at the DoA’s King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Office, stressed that immediate isolation of symptomatic animals is critical. “Farmers must immediately isolate any animal showing symptoms of Foot and Mouth Disease and report such cases to veterinary officials. Using petrol, madubula, or any other unapproved substances is harmful to animals,” said Gqokoma.

The outreach team, led by Mr Zolile Kantolo, Deputy Director: Coordination at DoA’s KSD Local Municipality office, highlighted the importance of collaboration between farmers and authorities. “We are appealing to farmers to work with government and follow veterinary guidance. FMD has serious economic consequences, and ignoring regulations will only deepen the crisis in our communities,” Kantolo said.

One affected farmer, Mr Reuben Mpondombini, whose five cattle are showing signs of FMD, described the economic and emotional toll of the disease. “This disease is painful for us as farmers. Cattle are our source of income and support for our families. Losing them means losing everything,” he said, urging fellow farmers to follow veterinary advice.

The DoA continues to urge livestock owners to avoid home remedies, strengthen biosecurity measures, limit animal movement, and promptly report suspected cases to veterinary authorities. All district offices are actively conducting awareness campaigns in their local municipalities to educate farmers about safe FMD control practices.

With cooperation between farmers and authorities, the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease can be managed more effectively, protecting both livestock and livelihoods in Mbozisa Village and surrounding areas.