No cloven-hoofed animals will be permitted at the Nampo Harvest Day in Bothaville in May. And a new case of foot-and-mouth disease has been confirmed in the Western Cape, near Wellington.

By Alani Janeke, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad

This year’s Nampo Harvest Day will be quieter, without the sound of lowing cattle or bleating sheep and goats.

Nampo management announced today that, amid South Africa’s foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) crisis, the decision was taken unanimously at a meeting between Nampo, Grain SA and various breeders’ associations. This followed a thorough risk assessment and consultation with relevant stakeholders.

The Nampo Harvest Day in Bothaville will take place from 12 to 15 May 2026.

“As custodians of biosecurity, we cannot afford to create a platform where risks cannot be effectively managed,” says Danie Minnaar, chairman of Grain SA’s Nampo Harvest Day Committee.

Dr Dirk Strydom, managing director of Nampo, says they take biosecurity extremely seriously. “This early decision allows breeders’ associations to adjust their planning in good time and prevents greater risks later on.”

Horses, dogs and poultry, which are not carriers of FMD, will still be permitted, subject to strict biosecurity measures. Visitors should also note that all animals and vehicles involved in animal-related activities will be sprayed and disinfected.

In addition, practical biosecurity measures for visitors are currently being reviewed and refined, while organisers will integrate awareness initiatives during the Harvest Day.

A New Visitor Experience

Breeders’ associations will still have stands during the event. These exhibitors are encouraged to be innovative and creative in how they showcase the genetic advantages, performance data and production values of their breeds without the physical presence of animals.

“Visitors can therefore look forward to a new experience where the advantages and performance of breeds will be presented in creative ways using technology and smart marketing,” says the Nampo team.

Grain SA and the Nampo team will continue to consult with all stakeholders in the run-up to the expo and will communicate any further developments timeously.

“Responsible decision-making sometimes means making difficult choices early,” Minnaar says. “This decision was taken in the best interests of the industry, producers and South Africa’s animal health.”