WC allocates R100m to combat foot-and-mouth disease outbreak

THE Western Cape Government has set aside R100 million to strengthen its response to the national foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak, as authorities intensify vaccination, movement controls and surveillance across the province.

- MURRAY SWART

Premier Alan Winde and provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Dr Ivan Meyer provided an update yesterday, outlining urgent steps being taken to contain the highly contagious animal disease and protect the province's livestock sector.

"We are acting swiftly with all stakeholders to get ahead of this outbreak. The Western Cape Government will set aside R100 million to procure enough vaccine doses to protect livestock," Winde said.

The province has already implemented 24/7 border controls, with consideration being given to full border closures and a permit system for cross-border livestock trade, subject to confirmation from national Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen. In outbreak areas, the movement of animals has been prohibited.