FISANTEKRAAL – Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Dr Ivan Meyer will lead a targeted mass vaccination drive against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in Fisantekraal. The initiative is part of the province’s intensified efforts to protect the livestock sector.
Vaccination efforts underway
The Western Cape department of agriculture will vaccinate around 450 cattle between 11:00 and 12:00 on Sunday, 15 February. Teams of veterinarians and animal health technicians will carry out the vaccinations under the province’s 21‑point FMD response plan. This plan guides all containment and emergency measures.
Livestock Sector Importance
The Western Cape Government reports that the province’s livestock industry is valued at about R13.5 billion and supports thousands of rural jobs. Protecting animal health is essential for economic stability and sustaining livelihoods.
About foot-and-mouth disease
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, sheep, and goats. It does not infect humans but spreads rapidly through direct contact, contaminated vehicles, equipment, and clothing. Outbreaks can threaten both farmers and the broader agricultural economy.
Quarantine and containment measures
The Fisantekraal drive is part of a broader strategy to prevent FMD spread across the province. Authorities have placed farms under quarantine following confirmed or suspected cases near Gouda and other districts. Veterinary teams have collected samples and continue surveillance to monitor outbreaks.
Leaders emphasise importance
“Protecting our livestock is crucial not only for farmers but also for the thousands of people employed in the sector. This coordinated drive forms part of intensified efforts to curb FMD spread locally.” – Winde
Meyer praised the collaboration between government, veterinarians, and farming associations. He stressed that careful planning, biosecurity, and vaccination protect both animal health and market confidence.
National coordination
The campaign aligns with national efforts. FMD was recently declared a national disaster in South Africa, allowing for stronger coordination of outbreak management, regional containment, and vaccination campaigns.
Community support
Local livestock producers and rural communities welcomed the vaccination drive. Authorities continue to stress the importance of compliance with livestock movement rules and strict biosecurity protocols across the Western Cape.
