Foot and Mouth Disease Awareness Day and Vaccine Rollout in Marikana

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, in partnership with Sibanye Stillwater, successfully hosted a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) Awareness Day and Vaccine Rollout at a private farm in Middlekraal, Marikana. The event brought together farmers from surrounding areas at the Marikana Hall to receive critical information on preventing and managing FMD. Government representatives emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to protect livestock and maintain the stability of local farming communities. FMD poses a serious threat to animal health and economic stability, making awareness campaigns and vaccination programmes essential. The event demonstrated a proactive approach to safeguarding the livestock industry while educating farmers on best practices for disease prevention.

North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi addressed attendees, urging farmers to vaccinate their livestock and maintain close communication with veterinary services. He highlighted vaccination as a key measure to protect herds, prevent disease outbreaks, and secure the province’s livestock industry. Mokgosi stressed that widespread vaccination contributes directly to food security and the long-term sustainability of farming operations. His message reinforced the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through education, resources, and coordinated animal health initiatives. Premier Mokgosi also encouraged farmers to adopt consistent biosecurity measures on their farms to reduce the risk of FMD transmission.

Dr Langa Madyibi, representing Veterinary Services, provided insights into the advantages of vaccination and proactive herd management. She explained that regular vaccination not only shields animals from FMD but also strengthens overall herd immunity, making livestock more resilient to outbreaks. Madyibi emphasized that early intervention and proper vaccination schedules can significantly reduce the economic impact of the disease on farmers. Her presentation included practical advice on monitoring animal health, maintaining clean enclosures, and implementing safe movement practices. Farmers were given clear guidelines on how to identify symptoms and respond quickly to suspected cases, ensuring prompt action and minimal spread of the disease.

MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, addressed the farmers to outline the department’s vaccination rollout plans. Sambatha reaffirmed government support for livestock farmers and emphasized the department’s ongoing commitment to improving animal health services across the province. He explained how structured vaccination campaigns, combined with veterinary guidance, help sustain livestock production and strengthen rural economies. Sambatha also highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative, noting that partnerships with private companies like Sibanye Stillwater are crucial to reaching remote farming communities effectively. His address reinforced the message that protecting livestock is a shared responsibility between government, private sector partners, and farmers themselves.

The FMD Awareness Day and Vaccine Rollout is part of a broader strategy to prevent disease outbreaks and ensure sustainable livestock production in North West province. By combining vaccination, education, and community engagement, the government aims to safeguard animal health while supporting rural livelihoods. Farmers left the event with practical tools, knowledge, and access to vaccination services to strengthen their herds. The campaign also underscores the importance of continuous collaboration between government departments, veterinary services, and private partners. These ongoing efforts are vital to maintaining food security, protecting the province’s livestock industry, and promoting resilient farming communities across South Africa.