LIMPOPO – Limpopo has officially been declared free of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), marking a major victory for the province’s agriculture sector after nearly seven years of recurring outbreaks, economic disruption, and trade restrictions.

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen announced the milestone in early July, highlighting the success of vaccination drives, strict biosecurity measures, and movement controls. The declaration restores confidence among farmers and exporters and reopens international market opportunities for Limpopo’s livestock industry.

The breakthrough follows the lifting of the disease management area (DMA) established in 2022 in response to an FMD outbreak linked to seven communal dip tanks in Vhembe district.

The DMA covered large areas of Vhembe and Mopani districts, where over 23 000 cattle were vaccinated in two rounds across 34 dip tanks.

“After thorough surveillance at the end of 2024, we found no evidence of the FMD virus in the area,” said Steenhuisen. “As a result, all restrictions on the DMA are lifted effective immediately, as published in the Government Gazette.”

He also stressed that ongoing vigilance is essential. “Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility, not just farmers. We urge all citizens, especially those handling livestock or travelling through rural areas, to follow biosecurity protocols. It’s the only way to protect livelihoods and keep our province FMD-free.”

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Limpopo welcomed the announcement, congratulating all stakeholders involved in the successful containment of the disease.

“After seven long years, Limpopo is officially FMD-free, outside the permanent FMD controlled area, which remains in place due to proximity to Kruger National Park,” said Marie Helm, DA Provincial Spokesperson for Agriculture and Rural Development.

“FMD has severe socio-economic impacts, disrupting trade, food security, and rural livelihoods. This achievement is a turning point for the province.”