The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said progress has been made in curbing the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the province. So far, the outbreak has affected several districts in the province, including Amajuba, uMkhanyakude, Zululand, King Cetshwayo, and uMzinyathi. It has also spread to Gauteng and Mpumalanga. Member of the Executive Council (MEC) Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa said she visited several affected areas and witnessed some good progress ongoing. However, she added that more work needs to be done to eradicate the disease. People should continue to follow prevention measures and vaccinate their cattle. So far, over 500,000 animals have been vaccinated, contributing to the containment of the outbreak.
KaMadlopha-Mthethwa reminded livestock owners that they should stop unauthorised transportation of animals and consult their local state vets if they need to transport their cattle. The veterinary service is cooperating with the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) to ensure that farmers respect the law. Meanwhile, red meat producers are worried about the economic impact of the outbreak. TLU SA general manager Bennie van Zyl said many farmers are in a dire situation because they cannot sell their animals. She complained that government authorities have not implemented alternative strategies to help the farming community. RPO chief executive officer Dr Frikkie Maré agreed with her, reminding the government that its responsibility extends to the businesses and individuals affected by disease control measures.
