by Gauteng News Report
The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has set aside R16 million to strengthen its response to the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in the province.
So far, 173 cases have been confirmed, with the majority reported in Germiston, followed by Randfontein and parts of Tshwane. While three cases have been closed, 170 remain under quarantine. Since the outbreak began, more than 286 000 animals have been vaccinated, and 128 925 have undergone controlled slaughter at designated abattoirs.
The department says delayed access to vaccines remains a key challenge, with 90 000 doses expected from the Botswana Vaccine Institute only in April. Gauteng’s position as a major livestock trading and processing hub has also increased the risk of further spread.
MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa has called for a coordinated national response and stricter control of livestock movement, while urging farmers to comply with regulations and rely on verified information.
