Foot-and-mouth outbreak sparks farmer outrage

South African farmers are warning of a serious agricultural and economic crisis following the escalating foot-and-mouth outbreak. Farmer unions say government delays, poor implementation, and a lack of vaccines are putting both the economy and food security at risk.

Farmers demand urgent action

Agricultural union TLU SA said little progress has been made since an indaba on foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in July.

General manager Bennie van Zyl said:

“Farmers’ frustration is mounting. We insist on immediate action to properly manage the outbreak and to protect the agricultural economy.”

Van Zyl added that the outbreak, which has spread since February, has become “a serious economic and agricultural crisis.”

Lack of resources blamed

According to Van Zyl, the state does not have enough veterinarians, inspectors, or resources to control the outbreak. He said the movement of livestock without strict control continues to worsen the situation.

“Farmers, consumers and the economy face severe risks,” he warned.

Financial pressure on farmers

Southern African Agri Initiative (Saai) executive director Theo de Jager said farmers are struggling financially.

“A large number of farmers cannot meet their financial obligations because the banks and cooperatives are on their necks. They would normally sell cattle to pay bills, but now they cannot.”

De Jager also criticised government for delays:

• It took six months to declare the outbreak.

• No solution has been provided on vaccine shortages.

• Onderstepoort has not manufactured FMD vaccines since 2013.

He pointed out that in Latin America, countries jointly developed vaccines at half the cost of South Africa’s.

Export growth ambitions at risk

Agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo said the outbreak threatens South Africa’s ability to grow agricultural exports.

“Without drastic changes, we risk not only the prosperity of the industry but also limit the participation of small- and medium-scale farmers in the value chain.”

Sihlobo said urgent measures include:

• Strengthening border fences around infected zones.

• Stationing inspectors 24/7 to stop animal movement.

• Scaling up vaccine manufacturing in South Africa.

Reliance on Botswana for vaccines

Currently, South Africa imports all FMD vaccines from Botswana, highlighting a decline in local production.

Sihlobo said the Onderstepoort Biological Products and Agricultural Research Council have been weakened by corruption and staffing challenges. Although efforts are underway to revive them, he warned it will “take time to realise the gains.”

{Source: TheCitizen}

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