Government And Private Sector Partner To Bolster Foot And Mouth Disease Vaccine Supply

The shipment was imported from Turkey and facilitated by Dunevax, acting as the authorised agent. The Department of Agriculture said the delivery forms part of its strategy to partner with the private sector to secure a steady supply of high-potency vaccines.

According to the department, the arrival was delayed due to tensions in the Middle East and restricted airspace over parts of the Gulf region.

The latest batch follows the recent delivery of one million doses from Argentine manufacturer Biogénesis Bagó. Upon arrival, Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) dispatched those doses to provinces, where state and private veterinary teams began vaccinating cattle herds in high-risk areas.

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen said the additional supply strengthens efforts to suppress viral circulation and move the country towards FMD-free status with vaccination. He reiterated the need for cooperation between farmers and government to contain outbreaks and protect the national herd.

The department said further vaccine consignments are scheduled to arrive in the coming months as the rollout continues across affected regions. Updates will be provided as distribution progresses.