File
The country's agricultural sector has welcomed the lifting of the 21-day ban on the movement of cattle following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease in several provinces.
The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, announced the lifting of the ban on Wednesday, saying the decision was based on the work done by the State Vetenary services, private vets and animal Health Technicians over the past 21 days.
The Department said the cooperation of traditional leaders, communities, and the police helped to limit the spread of FMD
Minister Didiza also said that it was encouraging that the Eastern, Western, and Northern Cape Provinces have not had a single case before and during the 21-day ban.
She said they would continue with surveillance and vaccination in areas where there were still active infections.
Meanwhile, the Red Meat Producer's Organisation welcomed the lifting of the ban, thanking the Minister for taking into account all the representations of roleplayers in the value chain and the impact of the ban on the red meat value chain.
RPO has also urged producers to take ensure that all documentation was in place and to act with the necessary seriousness and care with the movement of any animals.
The organisation said biosecurity at farm level, as well as the Agricultural Produce Agents Council's biosecurity measures, were now becoming crucial.
The RPO also reminded producers that it's the state's responsibility to control Foot and Mouth Disease.
