FMD Awareness Week Launched in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District to Protect Livestock

The Veterinary Directorate has launched a dedicated Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) Awareness Week following the declaration of FMD as a national disaster by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The campaign aims to inform and equip livestock farmers across the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease. Day 1 of the campaign took place successfully in Mogopa Village near Ventersdorp, bringing together local farmers, veterinary officials, and community leaders. The initiative underscores the urgency of FMD control while reinforcing broader animal health practices. By combining education, vaccination planning, and regulatory guidance, the Directorate seeks to safeguard livestock, rural livelihoods, and the agricultural economy.

During the awareness sessions, veterinary officials highlighted the key symptoms of FMD, which include fever, blisters in the mouth and on the feet, excessive salivation, and lameness. Farmers were instructed on bio-security measures to reduce disease spread, including disinfecting equipment, limiting farm access, and monitoring herd health regularly. Officials also explained the upcoming vaccination programme, emphasizing the importance of preparing animals and following official schedules to maximize immunity. Guidance on animal movement regulations was provided to prevent the accidental transmission of FMD between farms and communities. Additionally, the Departmental Veterinary Public Health Officer (VPHO) outlined the controlled slaughter process for FMD-positive animals, stressing that this can only be done at approved and regulated abattoirs to ensure safety and compliance.

Veterinary authorities also reminded farmers of the need to maintain prevention and vaccination programmes for other critical livestock diseases, including Brucellosis, Black Quarter, and Anthrax. These diseases pose ongoing risks to herd health and can have significant economic impacts if not managed correctly. Farmers were urged to strictly follow official vaccination schedules and remain vigilant for signs of illness in their livestock. The Directorate emphasized that proactive measures, timely vaccinations, and adherence to veterinary guidelines are essential to reducing the spread of FMD and other diseases. Effective disease control relies on consistent action from both veterinary services and livestock owners.

The awareness campaign continues with scheduled sessions in the Ventersdorp area, providing additional opportunities for farmers to access expert advice and resources. Sessions will be held on 24 February at Welgewonden, 25 February at Boikhutso, 26 February at Goedgewonden, and 27 February at Tshing. Attendance at these sessions is strongly encouraged to ensure farmers are fully informed and prepared. By engaging directly with the farming community, the Directorate hopes to create a unified approach to disease prevention and strengthen overall livestock health in the region. Participation in these sessions also allows farmers to ask questions, receive technical guidance, and plan for future vaccinations effectively.

FMD Awareness Week represents a critical step in protecting South Africa’s livestock and agricultural industry. Through education, vaccination planning, and strict adherence to animal movement regulations, farmers can play a key role in controlling FMD outbreaks. The initiative reinforces the importance of ongoing vigilance against all veterinary diseases while providing clear procedures for managing outbreaks safely. By attending the awareness sessions and implementing the recommended measures, livestock owners will contribute to a healthier, more resilient farming sector. The Veterinary Directorate’s proactive approach demonstrates the value of collaboration between government authorities and local communities in safeguarding animal health and sustaining agricultural productivity.