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The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform confirms that MEC Lebogang Motlhaping delivered the first batch of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines to Kuruman, in line with the national disease control protocols. This also forms part of the Department’s targeted outbreak containment interventions.
The intervention followed laboratory confirmation of Foot and Mouth Disease in the affected area; thereafter, the disease control protocol was immediately activated by implementing movement restriction on cloven-hooved animals to prevent further spread of the disease.
Veterinary teams are on the ground conducting inspections, surveillance, and monitoring in both the affected and surrounding areas. Trace-back and trace-forward investigations are underway to determine the extent of the outbreak and to identify the possible source of infection.
Farmers are strongly encouraged to strengthen on-farm biosecurity measures and to refrain from moving animals unless authorised by a state veterinarian. The Department continues to monitor the situation closely, working with veterinary and technical teams to ensure swift and effective containment.
The Department recognises the serious implications that Foot and Mouth Disease may have on farmers, particularly small-holder and emerging producers whose livelihoods depend on uninterrupted production and market access. Direct veterinary and extension support is being provided to affected farmers, including guidance on strengthened biosecurity, compliance with movement restrictions, and practical containment measures at farm level.
Farmers are urged to report any suspicious symptoms immediately to their nearest state veterinary office, as early detection remains critical to controlling the disease.
As part of the containment strategy, the Department initiated emergency procurement processes and has secured approximately 600 vaccine doses, which are being prioritised for affected and surrounding farms. The surveillance area includes approximately 500 cattle, allowing targeted vaccination where the virus has been confirmed. Despite the national shortage of FMD vaccines, efforts are ongoing to secure additional supplies.
Farmers are strongly cautioned against the use of illegal or unregistered vaccines, as incorrect strains may compromise containment efforts. All vaccinations must be authorised and coordinated through official veterinary channels.
The Department remains fully committed to supporting all farmers during this period. Assistance includes on-site veterinary inspections and monitoring, extension advisory services on herd management and biosecurity, guidance on regulatory compliance, coordinated vaccination programmes, and ongoing communication updates to affected communities.
Resources have been directed to ensure a rapid and coordinated response, with teams on the ground working tirelessly to stabilise the situation and safeguard the province’s livestock sector.
“This is not a challenge for one farmer alone; it is a collective responsibility to protect our herds, our rural livelihoods and our provincial economy. I call on all farmers and livestock owners to unite, comply fully with biosecurity measures, and report any suspected symptoms immediately. Together, through vigilance and cooperation, we will contain this outbreak,” said MEC Lebogang Motlhaping.
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