WHAT'S UP?

The South African poultry industry has asked the government to withdraw a 'concession' granted to the United States (US) authorities to determine for themselves which US states can export poultry to South Africa following outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI, or bird flu).

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Government must defend SA poultry industry

These decisions have previously been taken by the National Department of Agriculture (NDA), based on US notifications to the World Organisation of Animal Health (WOAH). However, the department has now allowed the US to 'self-impose and self-lift' bird flu restrictions.

Bird flu is rampant in the US and all poultry producing states have been affected, with 27 of those states currently banned by the South African authorities from exporting poultry to this country. By granting the US the right to determine its own disease status and export policies, the NDA has created a serious conflict of interest. This unprecedented and reckless shift compromises South Africa's disease-free status and threatens both food security and the future sustainability of the poultry sector. - Press release

Astral gets green light for vaccinations

South Africa’s biggest integrated broiler producer, Astral Foods, obtained approval from the National Department of Agriculture (NDA) in June to vaccinate its poultry against bird flu. This followed an 18-month long intensive application process to meet prescribed protocols and biosecurity measures. The approval was granted by the NDA’s animal health directorate.

According to Izaak Breitenbach, chief executive of the South African Poultry Association's broiler division, the approval is a historical moment for the poultry industry in the country. They have been in contact with the minister of agriculture, John Steenhuisen, requesting for this concession to also be granted to other producers. Breitenbach says a good vaccination programme combined with sound biosecurity measures are crucial for all poultry farms.