By AGISANANG SCUFF
21 July 2026 – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has reached a significant milestone in its fight against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) with more than one million animals vaccinated as part of an intensive province-wide campaign to protect livestock. The department said this will contain the outbreak and restore confidence in the livestock sector.
The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha said mass vaccination programme, which commenced in March 2026, forms part of the national intervention aimed at vaccinating the provincial cattle herd and limiting the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease. Sambatha said as of 19 July 2026, a total of 1 033 615 cattle had been vaccinated against FMD, making the North West one of the leading provinces in implementing the national FMD vaccination programme.
He further said this achievement places provincial vaccination coverage at approximately 74% of the estimated cattle population, with the department remaining firmly on track to achieve its target of 80% coverage by the end of August 2026, a critical threshold in establishing herd immunity. Sambatha commended veterinary professionals, animal health technicians and support teams for their dedication in reaching this importantmilestone.
“Reaching more than one million vaccinated cattle is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the commitment, professionalismand hard work of our veterinary teams, who have worked tirelessly across all four districts of the province.
“This milestone brings us closer to our goal of vaccinating at least 80% of the provincial herd by the end of August and, ultimately, every eligible animal in the province,” he said.
Sambatha added that while they celebrate this progress, they must remain focused on the work that still lies ahead. He said this is not the finish line, but it is an important step in a much longer journey towards controlling and eventually eradicating the disease.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to Veterinary Services, farmers, industry stakeholders and every individual who has contributed to the success of this campaign. The milestone should not lead to complacency as the vaccination campaign is entering a critical phase.
“This achievement does not mean that officials or farmers can relax. We have completed a significant portion of the first round of vaccinations, but once this phase is concluded, we must return to administer a second dose to all vaccinated animals” said Sambatha.
He said full protection depends on completing the vaccination schedule. Sambatha said vaccination activities are continuing in affected and high-risk areas to ensure maximum coverage and protection of the provincial herd.
“So, farmers are urged to continue adhering to strict biosecurity measures and to ensure that all eligible animals are presented for vaccination.
“The department reiterates its commitment to working closely with livestock farmers, organised agriculture, traditional leaders and allstakeholders to safeguard animal health, protect the agricultural economy and secure the future of the province’s livestock industry,” he said.
The Guardian 