Agricultural entity warns of worsening livestock disease crisis, urges government to act

The Southern African Agri Initiative (SAAI) has raised serious concerns about recent livestock disease outbreaks in South Africa, calling on the Department of Agriculture to fulfil its responsibilities in safeguarding the sector.

According to SAAI chairperson Theo de Jager, the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in KZN, which has since spread to some of the country’s largest feedlots, poses a severe threat to cattle farmers.

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He also expressed concern over the department’s ability to respond effectively to a potential avian flu outbreak.

“South Africa does not need more legislation or new rules and regulations. What we need is a Department of Agriculture that can enforce existing laws and actively protect the agricultural sector,” said De Jager.

He warned that if farmers are unable to sell livestock at auctions, to feedlots or abattoirs, their farms and households are left without income.

SAAI said it had been in communication with the Department of Agriculture since December, when initial rumours of FMD began circulating. However, it took several months before the outbreak was officially declared and response measures were deployed.

Farmers have since reported daily instances of cattle being transported by trucks or trailers to auctions, particularly in the Mpumalanga Highveld. De Jager warned that if the state cannot control the movement of livestock from infected areas, the future of meat and dairy production is at risk.

SAAI also highlighted the financial pressure many farmers are facing due to an inability to sell their livestock, saying the situation is largely beyond their control.

“This crisis originates with the state. The Department of Agriculture, supported by local private veterinarians, must act immediately upon the appearance of symptoms, identify the infected area, and enforce quarantine measures,” said De Jager.

He stressed that failing to act quickly results in further spread of disease and lasting damage to the cattle industry. An effective response, he added, depends on coordination between the department, Onderstepoort Biological Products (which manufactures vaccines), private and state veterinarians, law enforcement, traffic officials, private security, and organised agriculture.

According to SAAI, South African farmers already face unfair competition from regional producers with stronger enforcement, and from international producers who benefit from state subsidies and support.

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