Picture: North West MEC for DARD, Madoda Sambatha, joined by senior management from the Department and municipal officials, unveiled 100000 doses of Biogenesis Bago FMD Virus Vaccines during a press conference at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
9 March 2026 – The rollout of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines in the North West has officially begun, with the first batch of cattle receiving injections as part of an intensified campaign to stop the outbreak. The department said this marks a decisive step in the province’s response, with the vaccination drive now in full swing across affected districts to protect livestock, farmers, and rural communities.
The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha said the FMD has already spread to 16 of the province’s 18 municipalities, with a combined total of 158 confirmed cases across all four districts. Sambatha said to curb the spread, his department has secured 100 000 doses of Biogenesis Bago FMD Virus Vaccines.
“Vaccines will be distributed across all districts to ensure fairness and equal access. While priority will be given to the most affected areas, no farmer or village will be left behind. Communal villages, where livestock movement and limited biosecurity measures increase risk, will be a critical focus to build herd immunity and cut off transmission pathways.
“Alongside vaccination, veterinary teams are conducting daily outreach, information sessions, and biosecurity awareness campaigns across the province. Priority is also being given to precautionary quarantine farms and areas near buffalo populations, which are known carriers of the virus,” he said.
Sambatha appealed directly to farmers, stressing the importance of early reporting. He said farmers must not keep quiet when they see signs of Foot and Mouth Disease.
“Do not hide cases and be the first to report them to your nearest veterinary clinic or extension officer. If you report early, it will help the province stop the disease from spreading. This sickness does not move on its own; it is moved by us when we move animals without care. That means we also have the power to stop it. By reporting quickly and working together, we can protect our cattle, our villages, and our livelihoods,” said Sambatha.
He said farmers are strongly encouraged to report any suspicious signs immediately to the nearest veterinary facility or inform extension officers. Sambatha said by acting quickly and responsibly, communities can help contain the outbreak and protect the agricultural economy, food security, and rural livelihoods.
The Guardian 