Johannesburg: The Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has described the arrival of the first batch of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines as a victory for the country’s agricultural sector and a major step towards reopening global red meat markets. Steenhuisen officially received the first shipment of one million high-potency FMD vaccine doses at OR Tambo International Airport on Saturday.

According to South African Government News Agency, the vaccines, sourced from Argentine pharmaceutical company Biog©nesis Bag³, are seen as a critical tool in South Africa’s fight against recurring FMD outbreaks, which have severely affected the red meat industry and led to the closure of key export markets. For years, South Africa has grappled with FMD outbreaks that have restricted exports and placed strain on farmers. The Minister said the new vaccines will allow the country to move from reacting to outbreaks to proactively managing and ultimately eradicating the disease.

The shipment forms part of the Department of Agriculture’s new 10-Year Eradication Strategy aimed at securing ‘FMD-free status with vaccination’ a critical requirement for regaining access to lucrative global markets. The one million doses received mark the first phase of a broader rollout, with an additional five million doses expected to arrive in March. South Africa has a national herd of over 14 million cattle, and government aims to vaccinate at least 80% by December.

Steenhuisen thanked the Argentinian government and industry partners for their support in reaching what he described as a milestone moment, highlighting collaboration between the state and private sector. Steenhuisen also acknowledged the work of Department of Agriculture officials, including Director-General Mooketsa Ramasodi and senior veterinary and biosecurity experts including Dr Emily Mogajane and Dr Botlhe Modisane for their scientific and technical contributions.

Addressing farmers directly, the Minister said government understands the hardship many have endured due to recent outbreaks. The Minister expressed confidence that the vaccination programme will not only help curb the current outbreak but firmly place the country on a new trajectory for the red meat sector.