South Africa: SAAI warns about worsening livestock disease crisis

The Southern African Agri Initiative (SAAI) has expressed serious concern about recent livestock disease outbreaks in South Africa, calling on the government to do more to protect farmers. SAAI chairperson Theo de Jager said the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Kwa-Zulu Natal, which has since spread to some of the country’s largest feedlots, poses a severe threat to livestock owners. He also expressed doubts about the Department of Agriculture’s ability to respond effectively to a potential avian flu outbreak. De Jager warned that the condition of farmers is becoming extremely difficult because they cannot sell their livestock at auction, to feedlots or abattoirs, losing substantial income. Moreover, there are daily reports of cattle being transported to auctions without respecting health regulations, especially in Mpumalanga Highveld. It represents a serious risk for the future of meat and dairy production.
De Jager called for coordination between the Department of Agriculture, vaccine manufacturers, private and state veterinarians, law enforcement, private security, and organised agriculture to contain the outbreaks and prevent lasting damage to the cattle industry. He stressed that failing to act quickly results in the further spread of disease and severe economic consequences.