South Africa’s government reports progress in controlling the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak, with Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, noting a slowdown in new infections since July. As of the end of last month, 107 cases have been recorded this year across Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal. Veterinary teams have placed 71 farms under movement controls and more than 20 000 animals remain under surveillance or quarantine.

To strengthen containment, over 250 veterinary professionals have been deployed for daily inspections and R68 million allocated for emergency response, including vaccines and farmer support. Steenhuisen highlighted co-operation between government, provincial authorities, and industry, stating: “We are working closely with provincial authorities and industry partners to ensure rapid response to each outbreak.” He commended farmers for largely complying with biosecurity protocols and information sharing, which is making a measurable impact.

Export bans persist in affected regions, but authorities believe that interventions are limiting the virus’s spread and laying groundwork for recovery. Steenhuisen urged all livestock owners to follow biosecurity protocols and report any suspected cases promptly. He expressed optimism that sustained vigilance and partnership will allow export restrictions to be lifted and normal trade to resume.

With renewed momentum and strong cooperation from the farming sector, South Africa’s fight against FMD is showing signs of improvement. Successful containment will pave the way for the agricultural industry’s gradual recovery.