What's Happening?
South Africa is facing a severe foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) crisis, which has escalated into a national emergency with significant implications for agricultural trade, rural employment, and food security. The outbreak has led to substantial economic
losses, with beef export revenue declining by over R821 million between 2019 and 2025. The dairy sector has also been heavily impacted, with losses exceeding R1 billion. The Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) warns that continued outbreaks could result in up to R25.6 billion in lost gross production value over the next decade. The crisis has prompted public infighting and legal actions against the government, which could undermine efforts to control the disease.
Why It's Important?
The FMD crisis in South Africa highlights the critical need for coordinated efforts to manage animal health emergencies. The economic impact of the outbreak is profound, affecting not only the agricultural sector but also rural economies and employment. The situation underscores the importance of unity and collaboration among industry stakeholders and government to effectively address the crisis. Failure to do so could result in long-term damage to South Africa's agricultural exports and market access, further exacerbating economic challenges. The response to this crisis will also influence global perceptions of South Africa's agricultural sector and its ability to manage such emergencies.
What's Next?
To address the FMD crisis, South Africa must prioritize effective disease management strategies, including vaccination programs, surveillance, and movement controls. The government and industry stakeholders need to work together to strengthen coordination and communication, avoiding public disputes that could hinder efforts to control the outbreak. The establishment of a task team and an FMD Industry Coordination Council offers a platform for collaboration and problem-solving. Additionally, addressing institutional weaknesses and updating outdated legislation will be crucial in preventing future outbreaks and ensuring the resilience of South Africa's agricultural sector.
