Minister Steenhuisen to Oversee Fifth National FMD Vaccination Campaign in North West

The Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, is set to witness the fifth nationwide mass vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease in the Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality. This campaign forms part of a broader government strategy to contain and prevent the spread of a disease that continues to threaten South Africa’s livestock sector. The initiative reflects the urgency of protecting animal health while stabilising the agricultural economy. Steenhuisen will be joined by North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi and the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha. Their presence highlights the importance of coordinated leadership in tackling agricultural risks at both national and provincial levels.

Foot and Mouth Disease remains one of the most serious threats to livestock production due to its rapid spread and economic impact. Outbreaks can lead to severe trade restrictions, reduced productivity, and significant financial losses for farmers. The government has prioritised vaccination as a key tool to manage and contain the disease. This fifth rollout builds on previous campaigns that have already vaccinated millions of animals across affected regions. By continuing these efforts, authorities aim to strengthen herd immunity and reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks.

The event in Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality will also serve as a platform for direct engagement between government officials and local farmers. Steenhuisen, Mokgosi, and Sambatha are expected to interact with farmers to better understand challenges on the ground. These engagements are critical because they allow policymakers to align interventions with real farming conditions. Farmers will have the opportunity to raise concerns, share experiences, and receive guidance on disease prevention and biosecurity practices. This approach supports a more responsive and practical agricultural support system.

The vaccination campaign will take place at Swartkopfontein Communal Hall, where strict biosecurity protocols will be enforced to prevent any risk of disease transmission during the event. Measures will include controlled access, sanitation procedures, and guidelines for handling livestock. These precautions reflect the seriousness of managing FMD and protecting both animals and people involved in the campaign. Media representatives have been invited to cover the event, which is scheduled for Tuesday, 07 April 2026, at 09:30. The visibility of the campaign is expected to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination and responsible livestock management.

This nationwide effort forms part of a long term strategy to safeguard South Africa’s agricultural sector and ensure food security. Vaccination campaigns, combined with surveillance and farmer education, play a central role in controlling disease outbreaks. The collaboration between national and provincial leadership demonstrates a unified commitment to protecting rural livelihoods. As the fifth rollout takes place, it reinforces the message that consistent action is required to manage ongoing risks. The success of these campaigns will depend on continued cooperation between government, veterinary services, and farmers across the country.