SA Steps Up Fight Against FMD Disease: Experts Head to Brazil as Govt Secures Vaccine Pipeline from Argentina

The move follows high-level engagements in Brazil and Argentina, signalling what the Minister described as a “fundamental shift” from reactive containment to a coordinated, science-driven offensive against FMD.

In a decisive shift toward strengthening animal health security, South Africa is intensifying its battle against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) through global partnerships, scientific collaboration, and a more proactive strategy. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen announced that a delegation of animal health experts will travel to Brazil later this month for an intensive knowledge exchange on disease control, traceability, and surveillance systems.

The move follows high-level engagements in Brazil and Argentina, signalling what the Minister described as a "fundamental shift" from reactive containment to a coordinated, science-driven offensive against FMD.

Learning from Brazil's Global Success

A key highlight of the initiative is South Africa's collaboration with Brazil—widely regarded as a global success story in eradicating FMD. In May 2025, Brazil achieved FMD-free status without vaccination, as recognised by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), after a sustained 64-year effort.

Steenhuisen said South Africa would draw directly from this experience.

"Their journey offers us a roadmap for our own ten-year strategy. We do not have to reinvent the wheel," he said.

During the visit, South Africa signed a Memorandum of Intent (MoI) and an Action Plan with Brazil to accelerate eradication efforts. The agreement focuses on strengthening surveillance systems, improving traceability, and adopting best practices in disease management.

Towards a Brazil–South Africa Biosecurity Corridor

The partnership could evolve into a Brazil–South Africa Biosecurity Corridor, aimed at transforming biosecurity from a regulatory barrier into an economic enabler.

Proposed measures include:

• Joint early-warning systems for disease outbreaks

• Harmonised risk assessment frameworks

• Strengthened cross-border disease monitoring

Such cooperation could enhance trade prospects while ensuring higher animal health standards.

From Reactive to Proactive: A Strategic Reset

The Minister emphasised that South Africa is moving away from fragmented, reactive responses toward a coordinated, partnership-driven model that integrates international expertise with domestic capacity.

"By integrating international science with local production, we are closing the gap between policy and practice," Steenhuisen said.

The strategy also involves bringing the private sector into closer collaboration with government, particularly in vaccine distribution and disease control logistics.

Securing Vaccine Supply from Argentina

In parallel, South Africa has strengthened its vaccine supply chain through agreements with Argentina—another global leader in livestock health management.

Steenhuisen revealed that:

• 2.5 million doses of FMD vaccines have already been distributed

• An additional 5 million doses are ready for export, pending import procedures

The vaccines are sourced from Biogénesis Bagó, a leading Argentine manufacturer.

A new distribution agreement between Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) and Biogénesis Bagó will ensure a stable and reliable vaccine pipeline, critical for sustained disease control efforts.

Boosting Local Innovation and Research

The initiative also includes renewed collaboration between South Africa's Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and Argentina's National Agricultural Technology Institute (INTA).

This partnership aims to:

• Advance vaccine innovation

• Strengthen research capabilities

• Ensure long-term self-reliance in animal health technologies

Restoring Confidence in Livestock Sector

FMD outbreaks have historically impacted South Africa's livestock industry, affecting exports and farmer incomes. The government's new approach is designed to restore international confidence in South African beef and livestock products.

Steenhuisen reassured farmers that the government is addressing their concerns.

"We have heard their cries… The war against FMD is far from over, but for the first time in decades, there is a solid, scientific plan," he said.

A New Era of Agricultural Biosecurity

The Minister described the outcomes of the Latin America visit as the beginning of a South-South Strategic Alliance, positioning South Africa to leverage global expertise while strengthening its domestic systems.

With improved vaccine access, international partnerships, and a long-term eradication strategy, South Africa is aiming to build a resilient, competitive, and sustainable agricultural sector.

As global demand for high-quality, disease-free livestock products continues to grow, the success of this strategy could play a crucial role in boosting exports, safeguarding livelihoods, and strengthening food security.