By Maile Matsimela
In a historic move for South African agriculture, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has announced the country’s first-ever mass vaccination programme targeting poultry to combat the devastating spread of avian influenza. This initiative marks a significant shift in strategy to protect the nation’s poultry industry, which has suffered substantial losses due to culling measures.
“This vaccination programme represents a proactive approach rather than simply responding to outbreaks after they occur,” said Minister Steenhuisen during the announcement. “By protecting our poultry flocks, we safeguard not only farmer livelihoods but also national food security.”
The vaccination team brings together top expertise from the University of Pretoria and the Agricultural Research Council, focusing initially on high-risk areas and commercial flocks to contain the virus and prevent further culling.
A comprehensive preparedness strategy includes:
- Securing reliable vaccine supply chains.
- Maintaining essential cold chain capacity.
- Implementing robust traceability systems.
- Establishing clear reporting mechanisms.
To ensure rapid deployment, 50 animal health technicians have been contracted to assist with the vaccination rollout, with specialised training beginning next week.
FMD situation remains complex across provinces
While the poultry vaccination programme progresses, livestock farmers continue to grapple with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in several provinces.
KwaZulu-Natal
Signs of active virus circulation persist within the designated Disease Management Area (DMA), with concerning reports of new outbreaks detected beyond these boundaries. Local abattoirs have implemented specialised biosecurity protocols to safely process animals under FMD restrictions.
Gauteng
A recent outbreak on the East Rand has affected cattle in communal grazing areas and neighbouring dairy operations. More worryingly, a positive FMD case was identified at a major feedlot in the province, linked to an infected shipment from Mpumalanga.
Mpumalanga
The April 2025 outbreak in the Gert Sibande Municipality has been successfully contained, with targeted surveillance confirming no spread to adjacent farms.
Responding with decisive action
The Ministry has ordered more than 900 000 doses of FMD vaccine, with the first delivery expected next week. This supply will be critical in containing existing outbreaks and preventing new cases.
A newly established Biosecurity Council now unites law enforcement, veterinary professionals and industry experts to manage biosecurity risks and implement an effective livestock traceability system.
“Biosecurity is not just an agricultural concern – it’s a matter of national security,” emphasised Steenhuisen. “That’s why we’re bringing together diverse stakeholders to coordinate our response.”
Parallel efforts to upgrade Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) facilities are underway, aiming to ensure South Africa’s self-sufficiency in vaccine production.
Trade implications
The spread of FMD has already impacted international trade, with the People’s Republic of China suspending imports of South African beef and other cloven-hoofed animal products. However, processed wool exports remain unaffected.
Practical advice for farmers
Farmers across all sectors are strongly encouraged to:
- Limit animal movement and maintain strict biosecurity protocols.
- Avoid purchasing animals from regions with active FMD outbreaks.
- Implement a 28-day separation period for all newly introduced animals, regardless of health certification status.
- Report suspicious symptoms immediately to local State Veterinarians.
- Maintain detailed records of all animal transactions to support traceability efforts.
The Minister specifically commended Karan Beef for their swift action in containing the FMD outbreak at their Gauteng facility, highlighting how transparency and preparedness can minimise the impact of disease outbreaks.
“The agricultural community’s cooperation is essential,” concluded Minister Steenhuisen. “Together, we can protect our livestock industries and strengthen South Africa’s food security during these challenging times.”
For more information on disease prevention measures or to report suspected cases, contact your nearest State Veterinary Office or the National Animal Health Forum.
