The two-day Indaba, which takes place on 21 and 22 July at the ARC-VIMP campus in Roodeplaat, comes in response to current FMD outbreaks in various provinces, including Kwazulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Gauteng and most recently, the free state.
The disease has led to limitations in the field of cattle and has considerably influenced the red meat trade in South Africa, especially in international markets.
The meeting will bring together the leading veterinary and agricultural experts in the country to confront one of the most urgent threats for the cattle industry.
Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen and vice-minister Nokuzola Capa will work together the Indaba.
“After the disease has already caused considerable damage to the sector of the millions, the disease continues to threaten the wider economy of South Africa,” said Steenhuis.
“The Indaba offers an essential opportunity to unite expertise and means to eradicate this devastating disease.”
The event will focus on the development of a coordinated and extensive response to FMD, with important strategies, including the strengthening of biosecurity at farm level, the implementation of effective vaccination programs and enforcing strict animal movements.
“In collaboration with the ARC, the Ministry of Agriculture remains strongly dedicated to finding sustainable solutions. This Indaba is a crucial step in the fight against FMD,” Steenhuis added.
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