Livestock auctioneers warned to comply

Following a confirmed case of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Mogale City, auctioneers are warned that they must be registered with the Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) and display a valid APAC certificate at all times.

• Also read: Foot and Mouth Disease case reported in Mogale

In a statement issued by the chief director of veterinary services, Dr Winton Rabolao, he said that upon the arrival of animals at an auction, a biosecurity officer must inspect each animal. He added that if FMD is suspected, the animal must be isolated, and the state veterinarian should be contacted immediately.

If FMD is confirmed, the auction will be quarantined for cleaning and disinfection. Additionally, auctioneers must maintain accurate records for both sellers and buyers.

“For sellers, the records should include full name and contact information, ID copies, animal ID certificates, farm details, a veterinary health declaration, and a movement permit for animals from outside Gauteng,” he explained.

Rabolao continued to say that buyers must provide full name, contact details, and ID copies, as well as a written commitment to isolate the animals for 28 days after purchase. Auctioneers should ensure that animals from other provinces are accompanied by a movement permit and a veterinary health certificate to reduce the spread of infectious diseases.

“Animals from FMD control zones or under quarantine, particularly from KZN, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, are prohibited from being sold at Gauteng auctions.

Only animals that are properly identified according to the Animal Identification Act may be sold,” he expressed.

He concluded that Gauteng Veterinary Services urged all livestock stakeholders to comply with these biosecurity practices to prevent the spread of diseases, which can result in economic losses.

For reporting FMD suspicions or obtaining movement permits, contact Dr Jaison Mpofu (Randfontein) at 072 900 0869.