Maseru, Feb. 12 — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) a national emergency disease, underscoring the seriousness of the outbreak and its impact on the country’s agricultural sector.
Delivering his State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Ramaphosa said the classification of FMD as a national emergency is aimed at strengthening government’s response measures and curbing the spread of the highly contagious livestock disease.
He noted that the outbreak poses a significant threat to food security, rural livelihoods and the broader economy, particularly the red meat industry. The declaration enables authorities to intensify surveillance, enforce movement controls and accelerate vaccination and biosecurity interventions.
Ramaphosa assured farmers and industry stakeholders that the government is working closely with veterinary services and provincial authorities to contain the disease and minimise economic losses.
Meanwhile, Lesotho is experiencing a lumpy sick disease whereby the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Mr. Thabo Mofosi revealed that the long awaited medication for lumpy skin is now available.
Lumpy skin disease in Lesotho has reported about 1061 cases around the country where about 63 cattles are reported to have died.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease affects cattle, sheep, goats and other cloven-hoofed animals and while it does not pose a direct risk to human health, it can severely disrupt trade and agricultural production.
The President called on livestock owners to cooperate with veterinary officials and adhere strictly to disease control regulations to prevent further spread.
The move signals government’s commitment to safeguarding the agricultural sector and protecting the livelihoods of thousands who depend on livestock farming.
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