The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has announced the release of the first batch of a locally produced foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine, calling it a historic milestone in strengthening South Africa’s animal health system and livestock biosecurity.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
The ARC said the breakthrough represents a major step forward in protecting the country’s livestock industry, safeguarding food security and reducing reliance on imported vaccines.
The vaccine was developed and produced by ARC scientists and technical experts using local infrastructure and expertise, following more than two decades of research and sustained government investment. It has been registered as a stock remedy under Act 36 of 1947 (Reg. No. G1944) and meets stringent quality, safety and efficacy standards.
Dr Faith Peta, who leads the ARC vaccine production team, said foot-and-mouth disease remains one of the most contagious viral diseases affecting cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.
“Outbreaks, such as the one currently being experienced, can have devastating economic consequences by disrupting trade, restricting animal movement, and threatening farmers’ livelihoods,” Peta said. “The availability of a locally manufactured vaccine, even at a small scale, is a game-changer for South Africa’s agricultural sector.”
The production team comprises Virginia Mahlangu, Kabelo Tlaka, Tumelo Ratopola, Thando Veto, Lucas Phaahla, Lucas Mabena, Gabriel Makhubela and Bernard Matlou.
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Setting the Stage for Vaccine Self-Reliance
The ARC said the release of the first batch of 12 900 multi-strain FMD vaccine doses offer several strategic advantages. It said the local production enables faster response times during outbreaks, better alignment of vaccine strains with those circulating in the region, and improved control over supply chains. “It also strengthens national scientific capacity while contributing to skills development and job creation in the biotechnology and veterinary manufacturing sectors.”
According to Peta, the milestone underscores South Africa’s commitment to biosecurity and preparedness against transboundary animal diseases. “For farmers, the locally produced vaccine promises improved access and renewed confidence in disease control, which is essential for maintaining herd health, sustaining productivity and protecting access to both domestic and export markets. For consumers, it supports a stable supply of safe and affordable animal-derived food products,” explained Peta.
As the first doses are rolled out, the achievement stands as a powerful demonstration of South African scientific capability and the value of long-term strategic investment in agricultural research. The ARC has also completed the design of a new vaccine production facility, which will enable vaccine self-reliance in support of the ministerial disease control strategy.
“The successful release of the first locally produced FMD vaccine is not only a scientific achievement but a strategic national asset that will continue to strengthen South Africa’s agricultural economy for years to come,” said Peta.
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