The outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) has raised serious concern in the Matatiele area, threatening livestock health, farmers’ livelihoods and the local agricultural economy. In response to the growing impact of the disease, the Matatiele Local Municipality today convened a stakeholder engagement session at the New Council Chambers to address the situation and strengthen coordinated action.
The meeting brought together traditional leaders, ward councillors, local farmers and officials from the Department of Agriculture to share critical information, assess the current status of the outbreak and discuss measures to prevent further spread.
Presenting on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, Dr Ndzamela explained that Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. She outlined the common clinical signs, which include fever, excessive salivation, blisters in the mouth and on the feet, sores or tearing of the hooves, reduced milk production, poor growth, lameness and reluctance to walk.
Dr Ndzamela reported that 12 suspected cases have been investigated to date, with six confirmed positive for Foot and Mouth Disease. She stressed the critical importance of early reporting, strict adherence to control measures and cooperation from farmers and communities to contain the outbreak and limit economic losses.
She further informed stakeholders that an awareness campaign is currently being rolled out across various wards in the municipality. The campaign will be supported through continuous engagement with ward councillors and traditional leaders to ensure that communities and farmers are well informed about prevention methods, symptoms of the disease and proper reporting procedures.
The Municipality reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to safeguard livestock, protect livelihoods and minimise the impact of Foot and Mouth Disease in the Matatiele area.
