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Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak Escalates in KZN, Threatening Red Meat Farming Industry
The spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has raised significant concerns within the red meat farming industry. The outbreak has prompted the South African Department of Agriculture to extend the boundaries of the Disease Management Area (DMA), first declared in 2021, after new cases emerged in Newcastle, located in the northern part of KZN.
Expanded Disease Management Area
The Department of Agriculture confirmed that the foot and mouth disease has now spread beyond the initial DMA, first established in 2021 following the emergence of the SAT2 strain. Under the expanded DMA, no cloven-hoofed animals or related products may be moved within or outside the area without a state veterinary permit, in line with the stipulations set by the Animal Diseases Act.
The Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, has emphasized that this legal framework obliges animal owners and farm managers to take all necessary precautions to prevent infections and curb the spread of FMD.
Impact on Red Meat Farmers
Dr. Frikkie Mare, CEO of the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation, pointed out that the outbreak is primarily concentrated in KZN, with some outbreaks occurring outside the DMA. He highlighted that this new spread has resulted in a significant increase in the size of the controlled area, which now encompasses a larger section of the province.
“The biggest problem is that farmers in the DMA are limited to selling their animals within the area. If their animals test positive or have been vaccinated, the only option is to slaughter them. Farmers in this situation are losing a vital income stream,” said Mare.
However, the Department of Agriculture has introduced a positive measure: farmers can apply for exemption from mandatory vaccinations if they can prove their farms meet the necessary biosecurity measures and their animals test negative for FMD.
Threat to South Africa’s Export Markets
The spread of FMD in KZN is also jeopardizing South Africa’s red meat exports, particularly with export markets that require strict biosecurity standards. Dewald Olivier, CEO of Red Meat Industry Services, stated that the disease’s continued spread threatens both commercial and emerging farmers, especially as it impacts the ability to meet international market requirements.
“If the outbreak is not controlled, we may face export bans, leading to severe economic consequences for the local industry and small-scale farmers, who rely on livestock sales for income,” Olivier said.
Biosecurity Measures and Government Response
The Department of Agriculture, alongside industry bodies, has been ramping up efforts to curb the outbreak. Several measures have been implemented, including:
- Biosecurity enforcement: Farmers must secure their farm boundaries and disinfect transport vehicles to prevent further infection.
- Vaccination efforts: The government is working on large-scale vaccination programs within the DMA to control and eventually eradicate the disease.
- Traceability platform: RMIS is actively supporting efforts through its Traceability Platform, assisting with the monitoring and enforcement of disease control measures.
These actions aim to contain the outbreak, prevent further spread, and protect the livelihoods of farmers and the broader agriculture sector.
Looking Ahead
While the outbreak in KZN presents significant challenges, the Department of Agriculture’s response and the industry’s collaborative efforts are critical to preventing further spread and minimizing economic damage.
The situation remains fluid, and farmers are urged to follow all guidelines to ensure that the foot and mouth disease does not continue to escalate, jeopardizing both their income and South Africa’s agricultural exports.
As the outbreak continues, all eyes are on KZN as authorities and stakeholders work to regain control over the disease’s spread and protect the local farming community.
{Source IOL}
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