The Red Meat Producers’ Organisation has cautioned that South Africa’s upcoming national foot-and-mouth vaccination campaign must be supported by clear, practical measures to help farmers prepare their livestock for market access. The warning follows an announcement by Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen that two million vaccine doses are expected to arrive by February for KwaZulu-Natal, the province currently most affected by the outbreak.

The minister confirmed the development on Wednesday, noting that KwaZulu-Natal continues to experience rising infection rates, including recent flare-ups in Kokstad. The province now accounts for 180 of the country’s 274 unresolved cases. According to the department, uncontrolled animal movement remains a significant driver of new infections.

Industry leaders have welcomed the arrival of vaccines but stress that producers need accurate information and guidance while regulations remain unchanged. They indicated that some farmers may mistakenly believe movement controls have already been relaxed, which is not the case. The sector emphasises the importance of managing expectations and ensuring that regulations are only updated once the government has officially published any changes.

The organisation maintains that while the vaccination rollout marks progress, stronger communication and practical support are essential to stabilise the livestock market and assist farmers affected by prolonged restrictions.