Umzimvubu farmers empowered through information day amid Foot and Mouth disease concerns
The scheduled Livestock Auction Day at the KwaBhaca Auction Site took a different turn on Thursday when it was converted into an information-sharing programme following recent Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks in neighbouring provinces and towns.
On 20 November 2025, farmers from across Umzimvubu gathered to learn more about the disease, its prevention, and new opportunities available within the agricultural sector.
A range of key stakeholders—including the Department of Agriculture, Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency, Agricultural Research Council, Small Enterprise Development Funding Agency, Ntinga Development Agency, Social Development, Tyelimhlophe Agricultural School, Tsolo Agricultural College (TADI), Animeds, and Epol—provided farmers with critical updates. The session covered FMD awareness, government grants, funding opportunities, and improved farming practices.
The programme also shone a spotlight on growth and development opportunities, particularly in sustainable farming and skills enhancement. Led by Cllr Mbongeni Magobane from the Local Economic Development Standing Committee, the event encouraged farmers to share insights with one another, strengthening collective best practices.
Although FMD remains a concern, the day underscored the power of collaboration in building a resilient agricultural sector. Farmers left the event better informed and motivated, equipped with new knowledge to support their operations and the broader Umzimvubu farming community.
