Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen is set to receive the first batch of one million foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccines at OR Tambo International Airport today.

According to The Witness, the shipment of high-potency vaccine doses sourced from Biogénesis Bagó in Argentina marks the first phase of a broader national rollout.

A further five million doses are scheduled to arrive in March. The vaccines form a cornerstone of the Department of Agriculture’s newly launched 10-year eradication strategy, which aims to secure South Africa’s ‘FMD-free status with vaccination’.

Protecting livestock and exports

The strategy seeks to protect the country’s national herd of more than 14 million cattle, alongside sheep, goats and other cloven-hoofed animals susceptible to the highly contagious viral disease.

The government said achieving internationally recognised FMD-free status with vaccination is critical to reopening lucrative export markets and restoring long-term biosecurity stability.

Farmers hope for relief

For many cattle farmers in KZN, the arrival of the vaccine signals potential relief after months of movement restrictions, disrupted auctions and mounting financial pressure.

According to the recent status of the outbreak released by the department on Tuesday, the province has a total of 222 cases, the second highest number of cases after the Free State’s 249.

While the department has not yet released details on how the vaccine will be distributed, high-risk and affected areas are expected to be prioritised.

Voices from the field

A dairy farmer in the Midlands said they appreciated the efforts made, however, they had expected the vaccine long ago. “I’ve lost a number of my herd and more calves are expected to die in the next few days. This has been a huge financial and emotional burden.

“Yes, the one million vaccines will be in the country, but when will they actually arrive and help us save what we have left of our cattle?” asked the farmer, who requested anonymity.

He also wondered whether they would receive any assistance from the government following the financial losses they have incurred.

FMD support line open

Meanwhile, the department has now opened a FMD support line to assist farmers with all FMD-related enquiries.

The FMD Control Centre will provide clear information on symptoms, guidance on movement controls, vaccine and vaccination details, practical biosecurity tips, and support for farmers, traders and the public.

The toll-free FMD Control Centre number is 0860 246 640.

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