Premier Lazarus Mokgosi Leads Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccination Drive and Expands Rural Support Initiatives in North West

Agricultural development and animal health protection took centre stage in Welbekende outside Rustenburg on a major provincial intervention led by Lazarus Mokgosi together with Head of Department Dr Hans Kekana. The visit focused on strengthening livestock health systems through a Foot and Mouth Disease vaccination campaign that reached local cattle farmers directly. A total of 375 cattle belonging to nine farmers were successfully vaccinated and tagged under the Livestock Identification and Traceability System. This system plays a key role in tracking livestock movements and improving disease control across farming communities. The initiative reflects a coordinated effort to protect the agricultural economy from outbreaks that can disrupt production and trade.

The vaccination drive in Welbekende highlights the importance of proactive disease prevention in livestock farming. Foot and Mouth Disease poses a serious threat to cattle production, as it can spread quickly and cause major financial losses for farmers. By vaccinating cattle and tagging them under the national traceability system, the Department ensures that animals can be monitored throughout their production cycle. This improves response times in the event of disease detection and helps limit wider outbreaks. Farmers in the area benefit from improved herd health, stronger market confidence and better long term productivity.

Dr Hans Kekana also extended the Department’s outreach by visiting Mamerotse Village, where agricultural infrastructure investments have been implemented to support local farmers. The developments include a livestock handling facility designed to improve animal management and reduce stress during treatment and vaccination processes. A 7,000-litre water reservoir has also been installed to ensure consistent water supply for farming needs. Borehole drilling, equipping and water reticulation systems have been completed to improve access to reliable water sources. A windmill and generator further support water distribution and energy supply, ensuring that farming operations continue even during power disruptions.

These infrastructure improvements in Mamerotse Village are benefiting more than 20 farmers who rely on livestock farming as their main source of income. Access to proper water systems has strengthened daily farming activities and improved livestock survival rates during dry conditions. The livestock handling facility allows farmers to manage animals more safely and efficiently, reducing injuries and improving productivity. Reliable water access also supports pasture management and general household use, which strengthens overall rural living conditions. These investments demonstrate a clear focus on practical solutions that address real challenges faced by communal farmers.

In Monakato, the Department extended its support beyond livestock farming by assisting the Thari-Mmelegi Orphanage with gardening tools and seedlings. This intervention aims to promote food production and encourage self sustainability within the facility. The garden project allows the orphanage to produce fresh vegetables that can supplement daily meals and reduce food costs. It also provides an opportunity for skills development among caregivers and children involved in gardening activities. This support reflects a broader approach to food security that includes both agricultural production and community welfare.

The combined initiatives led by Premier Lazarus Mokgosi and Dr Hans Kekana demonstrate a coordinated strategy to strengthen rural livelihoods across the North West province. The focus on livestock health, infrastructure development and food production highlights the importance of supporting both commercial and communal farming systems. Through vaccination programmes, water infrastructure and community support projects, the Department continues to address key barriers that affect agricultural productivity. These efforts contribute to improved resilience among farmers and better living conditions in rural communities. The ongoing commitment to agricultural development signals a long term plan to build a stronger and more sustainable farming economy in the province.