The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has urged communal livestock farmers to strengthen biosecurity measures and strictly comply with animal movement regulations to help curb the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).
By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming
In an awareness campaign aimed at communal farmers, the department acknowledged the heavy financial and emotional toll recent FMD outbreaks have had on farming families and rural livelihoods. It stressed that restoring South Africa’s standing in international livestock trade depends on the cooperation of every livestock owner.
The department reminded farmers movement control remains one of the most effective tools to prevent the spread of FMD. Farmers in active outbreak zones are urged to respect standstill orders, which require a 14- to 30-day ban on animal movements within affected areas covering a 10 to 20 km radius.
Before moving any livestock, farmers must also ensure they have a valid digital QR-coded movement permit. For those selling livestock through auctions, only animals originating from FMD-free areas or animals that have tested negative for the disease should be transported to auction facilities.
Also read: Free State FMD cases climb to 739 as more than 1.4 million cattle are vaccinated
Farmers play a vital role
Movement controls help interrupt the transmission of the FMD virus and reduce the risk of new outbreaks. Compliance also protects disease-free and buffer zones from infection, helping safeguard healthy livestock populations across the country, the department said
Perhaps most importantly, strict adherence to biosecurity measures supports South Africa’s efforts to regain access to international export markets. The department said rebuilding confidence in the country’s animal health system is essential for restoring agricultural trade and strengthening the livestock economy.
Also read: New online system lets farmers apply to vaccinate their own livestock against FMD
Veterinary support available
Communal farmers requiring advice or assistance are encouraged to contact their district Veterinary Services office:
- Capricorn District: Dr Nthabiseng Mashego – 060 978 2317
- Waterberg District: Dr Edward Sinthumule – 072 453 8037
- Vhembe District: Dr Tambudzani Rhangani – 066 079 4597
- Mopani District: Dr Vonani Mashau – 066 079 4201
- Sekhukhune District: Dr Florence Makgamatha – 071 604 1885
Alternatively, farmers can contact the department’s Farmer Assist/Care service via farmercare@agric.limpopo.gov.za for additional support and guidance.
Also read:
‘4 million FMD vaccines landing next week’ – Aucamp
Free State FMD cases climb to 739 as more than 1.4 million cattle are vaccinated
Dip-tank challenges tackled in KZN FMD fight
