@johnsteenhuisen: Today, I announced the national strategy on foot-and-mouth disease containment. Phased over 10 years, beginning with stabilisation and consolidation. Before moving toward the eventual withdrawal of vaccination and final recognition of national freedom through vaccination by the WOAH. With the integration of advanced technology, we are no longer fighting this disease in the dark. Through the Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) Operational Centre, we now utilise a real-time digital heatmap to track verified cases and suspected outbreaks within a 10km radius. This work is done together with Epidemiologists from SAEHP, using resources from the equine industry. Up to date we have vaccinated almost two million animals since the recent outbreaks occurred. By protecting our national herd, we are protecting our future. I ask for your patience, your partnership, and your unwavering support as we implement this scientificallybacked plan to restore South Africa to its rightful place as a leader in global livestock trade.

John Steenhuisen

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Region: ZA

Wednesday 14 January 2026 17:51:41 GMT