Work is under way to complete the construction of the Bhambanana Red Meat Abattoir in Jozini, which is hoped will help mitigate the impact of foot and mouth disease (FMD) on local farmers.

Agriculture MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa on Tuesday officially handed over the site of the abattoir to service provider ECA Consulting (PTY) Ltd to ensure the facility is fully functional and compliant with regulatory standards.

The facility was constructed in 2012 to stimulate regional economic development and job creation, as well as to mitigate the devastating impact of the 2011 FMD outbreak. It was, however, marred by reported structural issues and non-compliance with national safety regulations.

The new service provider is expected to conduct the remaining repairs and renovations to ensure full compliance with Veterinary Public Health (VPH) requirements, addressing issues such as the slaughtering line height, port size, and absence of headwrecks and hoof stations.

This includes repairs and modifications to the overnight cold room, chillers, offal rooms, carcass dispatch areas, lairages for cattle and sheep, and livestock off-loading facilities.

“We want this project to be up and running and used optimally,” said kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.

She cautioned against any acts of corruption, and warned any officials who may ‘demand kickbacks from service providers’.

“This project is the first step in addressing foot and mouth disease in the region,” said the MEC.

“Abattoirs serve as a critical link between livestock farmers and markets. This one has a daily capacity to slaughter up to 60 cattle. Renovations are expected to be completed by July 2027.”

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