KZN Gauteng And Free State To Receive First Foot And Mouth Disease Vaccines As SA Secures Five Million Doses

South Africa has taken delivery of its first high-potency Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines, with KwaZulu-Natal, parts of Gauteng, the Free State and the North West set to benefit first.

The shipment landed at O.R Tambo International Airport on Saturday, marking the start of a wider vaccination drive aimed at containing outbreaks in high-risk areas.

The consignment was supplied by Argentina-based Biogénesis Bagó, with further batches expected in the coming weeks. Authorities have confirmed that more than five million doses will be in the country by the end of March.

Priority Provinces Identified For Foot And Mouth Disease Vaccine Rollout

Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, addressed the media shortly after the vaccines arrived, outlining the initial distribution plan.

“KwaZulu-Natal, parts of Gauteng, Free State and North West, while high-risk and border regions will follow structured vaccination programmes,” he said.

Steenhuisen added that the arrival of additional doses would enable officials to expand efforts beyond targeted outbreak responses.

According to the minister, the extra supply will allow authorities to move towards broader suppression of viral circulation in regions considered vulnerable.

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Despite the vaccine rollout, industry players have been warned that existing containment protocols remain mandatory.

Steenhuisen stressed that quarantine rules, movement permits and biosecurity measures must continue to be observed.

“Those who deliberately move animals illegally, conceal infections, or ignore restrictions threaten the recovery of the entire sector.

“Where there is wilful non-compliance, we will work with law-enforcement authorities and the full might of the law will be applied,” Steenhuisen said.

FMD Control Centre And Toll-Free Support Line Launched For Farmers

In a bid to strengthen coordination and support farmers, the Department of Agriculture has established a dedicated FMD Control Centre.

From Wednesday, farmers will be able to seek assistance through a toll-free support line, offering guidance from experts on managing foot and mouth disease.

To get assistance from an expert, use this toll-free FMD support line: 0860 246 640.