Foot and mouth threatens KZN dairy farmers

The KZN dairy industry is on high alert following the widespread outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in the province.

The KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has pledged to work closely with dairy farmers to reduce the impact after five districts – King Cetshwayo, uMkhanyakude, Zululand, uMzinyathi and Amajuba – were identified as hotspots.

The disease already threatens the livelihoods of beef farmers, with dairy farmers concerned as the department investigates recent cases in dairy herds, including vaccinated herds in uMzinyathi and uThukela.

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During a visit to Orange Grove Dairy in Dundee, Agriculture MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa said KZN is home to 16 major dairy factories, including Clover Industries Limited.

This makes the province one of the country’s leading milk producers, accounting for about 30 per cent of all raw milk produced.

“The department is investigating FMD cases in three dairy farms in uThukela and uMzinyathi districts. Clinical signs of FMD have been observed on these farms, prompting industry stakeholders to plan a way forward,” said Mthethwa.

In 2021, the FMD outbreak affected communal and commercial beef farmers. While dairy farms have been unaffected, veterinary services, however, have begun investigations following signs of the disease.

Since the start of vaccinations in 2022, over 700 000 cattle in the province have been vaccinated, including 24 000 in uMzinyathi District.

“We are promoting partnerships with all stakeholders to tackle the disease. As part of our containment measures, we have issued veterinary movement permits.

“We are pleased to report a high level of compliance among farmers, which has minimised the impact of the disease,” said Mthethwa.

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