Dear Editor
The Democratic Alliance (DA) applauds Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen for a major breakthrough in the fight against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). This is a game-changer for South Africa’s red meat industry and the farmers who feed the nation.
By February next year, two million doses of FMD vaccines will be ready. A new mid-scale production facility will add another 1,5 million doses. Vaccination will start immediately, focusing on the provinces most at risk: KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, and North West.
The Department of Agriculture has resolved to implement a comprehensive strategy to vaccinate the entire national herd. This initiative will position South Africa to apply to the World Organisation of Animal Health (WOAH) for recognition of “freedom with vaccination” status – a critical step for restoring confidence in export markets.
The Department is working closely with Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP), the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), and international partners including China and Argentina. Public-private partnerships like these are crucial. They ensure vaccines reach farms quickly, safely, and at scale.
FMD has caused massive disruption since the 2019 outbreaks. Rapid vaccination, strong surveillance, and strict traceability are essential to protect farmers, consumers, and export markets. Minister Steenhuisen’s plan delivers all three.
The DA calls for continued speed in rollout, strict enforcement of containment measures, and diligent monitoring to prevent further spread.
This is a blueprint to protect livelihoods, secure food safety, restore confidence in South Africa’s agricultural sector, and finally position the country to achieve international recognition of its FMD-free status with vaccination.
Regards
Beyers Smit MP
DA Deputy Spokesperson on Agriculture