Millions more vaccine doses approved to boost SA’s fight against FMD

South Africa has taken a significant step in strengthening its response to the ongoing outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) with the approval of millions of additional vaccine doses aimed at containing the spread and protecting the country’s livestock industry.

By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming

Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen welcomed the rapid intervention by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), which has expedited the importation of six million doses of the Dollvet vaccine. This follows the issuance of a Section 21 permit for two million doses, with further permits expected to cover the remaining four million doses.

Phased Vaccine Rollout Amid Global Challenges

The phased procurement, structured in batches of two million doses, reflects logistical challenges linked in part to global supply disruptions, including ongoing instability in the Middle East. Earlier this month, 1.5 million Dollvet vaccine doses sourced from Turkey were successfully delivered to South Africa, marking an important milestone in the country’s vaccination campaign.

In addition, government has confirmed that a further five million doses of the Biogénesis Bagó vaccine will be ordered. This builds on last month’s delivery of one million doses from Argentina, reinforcing the country’s vaccine supply through diversified international partnerships.

Also read: Limpopo ramps up FMD vaccination efforts amid Kruger border threats

Partnerships Key to Protecting Livestock Sector

Steenhuisen emphasised the importance of collaboration in navigating the complexities of vaccine acquisition and distribution. He acknowledged the role of the private sector and industry stakeholders, noting that a united effort is critical in combating the outbreak.

“We are not fighting this battle alone,” he said, adding that cooperation across the value chain will be key to protecting South Africa’s national herd and ensuring long-term food security.

John Steenhuisen, Minister of Agriculture, and Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, Gauteng MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, led a ministerial outreach campaign for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccination in Katlehong, East Rand, Johannesburg today. Photo: Lebogang Mashala

Ensuring Timely Delivery and National Food Security

The Department of Agriculture also expressed its appreciation to SAHPRA for its responsiveness, highlighting that timely regulatory processes are crucial to ensuring vaccines reach affected areas without delay. Authorities have indicated that a detailed delivery schedule will be communicated once finalised.

As the country intensifies its response, the expanded vaccine rollout is expected to play a central role in curbing the spread of FMD and stabilising the livestock sector, which remains vital to both rural livelihoods and the broader agricultural economy.

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