Minister John Steenhuisen Oversees Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccination Drive in Western Cape

Minister John Steenhuisen visited several farms in the Western Cape to oversee the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination drive. The initiative aims to contain the recent outbreak that has threatened livestock across the region. Authorities are prioritizing high-risk areas to prevent the spread of the virus and protect both commercial and small-scale farmers. The vaccination campaign is part of a broader strategy to strengthen biosecurity measures, ensuring that livestock movements are monitored and controlled effectively. Farmers are encouraged to cooperate with veterinary teams and report any suspected cases to help curb the outbreak swiftly.

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has mobilized veterinary experts and support staff to reach remote and high-density farming areas. This proactive approach is designed to minimize economic losses caused by FMD, which can result in severe restrictions on meat and dairy exports. The Minister emphasized the importance of early detection and vaccination as key tools in managing the disease. In addition to vaccination, the campaign includes awareness programs for farmers on best practices for biosecurity. These measures aim to create long-term resilience against FMD outbreaks and protect the livelihoods of communities dependent on livestock.

Minister Steenhuisen highlighted collaboration between government, veterinary services, and farmers as essential to the success of the drive. He also urged livestock owners to ensure their animals are up-to-date with vaccinations and to maintain strict hygiene and quarantine protocols. The government has committed resources to support affected farmers, including emergency veterinary services and guidance on herd management. The FMD vaccination drive reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding South Africa’s agricultural sector against infectious diseases. By controlling the outbreak in the Western Cape, authorities hope to prevent wider regional impact and maintain confidence in the livestock industry.

The vaccination program has seen positive initial results, with high participation from local farmers. Veterinary teams continue to monitor vaccinated herds to assess the effectiveness of the campaign. Minister Steenhuisen reaffirmed that continued vigilance is required even after the immediate outbreak is contained. The government plans to maintain routine surveillance and rapid response mechanisms to prevent future outbreaks. This comprehensive approach reinforces the Western Cape’s preparedness against animal diseases and supports sustainable agricultural growth.