The Democratic Alliance welcomes the official lifting of the Disease Management Area restrictions in Kouga and Kou-Kamma. These restrictions were first imposed in July last year following an outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease, and their removal marks a significant milestone for the agricultural sector in the Eastern Cape.
Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen recently confirmed that the restrictions would no longer be in effect. This follows the successful containment of the outbreak, supported by the administration of over 144,000 vaccine doses and months of intensive post-vaccination surveillance. Encouragingly, no active virus has been detected in the affected areas.
This is a significant victory for the people of the Eastern Cape, and it is the result of tireless efforts by farmers, veterinarians, state officials, and local communities. Their collective efforts have helped safeguard livestock and the livelihoods of thousands who depend on this vital sector.
However, we cannot afford to be complacent. While the general movement restrictions have been lifted, seventy-six farms remain under quarantine. These farms will require further monitoring and testing twelve months after their initial vaccinations to confirm the complete absence of the virus.
We must approach this moment with cautious optimism. The immediate threat has passed, but our long-term security depends on substantial and sustained investment in biosecurity. This must now become a top priority for the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture.
Biosecurity is not simply a matter for individual farmers. It is a shared responsibility that affects every person who relies on food security, economic growth, and stable employment. There must be a renewed focus on enforcing regulations that govern the movement and health of livestock.
Routine vaccination programmes must be strengthened to maintain immunity across all vulnerable regions. Record keeping and animal traceability must be improved so that outbreaks can be detected and contained swiftly. Our farmers must be equipped with the knowledge and training they need to protect their animals and their businesses. We must also ensure that rapid response teams are prepared and resourced to intervene when new threats emerge.
None of this can happen in isolation. Success will require full cooperation between government departments, farming associations, veterinary services and the rural communities themselves. It is through this spirit of unity and shared purpose that we can truly build a stronger future for agriculture.
The DA remains committed to supporting our farming sector and rural communities throughout this recovery and beyond. We must now move forward with determination and compassion, ensuring that the lessons of the past year strengthen our province for generations to come.