Recent Issues

📅 Issued: 13 June 2025📍 Source: Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development 🚨 Important Regulatory Update for Livestock Farmers and Transporters In light of increasing risks around animal disease transmission, new national control measures have been gazetted under the Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1984). These regulations are aimed specifically at cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats, in order to contain the spread of controlled diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). ✅ Key Highlights of the New Measures 📝 Required Movement Documents When moving cattle, sheep, or goats, the following documents are mandatory: A health declaration from the responsible person at the origin farm. A signed undertaking from the destination farm confirming 28-day isolation before integration into the main herd. No movement allowed if animals show symptoms or suspicion of disease. 🐑 Gatherings Like Auctions & Livestock Shows Special biosecurity rules apply due to the high risk of disease spread at animal gatherings. These include: Clear separation between arrival (“dirty”) and biosecure (“clean”) areas. Mandatory on-site biosecurity officer registered with the South African Veterinary Council. Veterinary inspection of animals before and at the gathering. All animal movements and identities must be traceable and recorded for at least 5 years. 🚚 Transport Requirements Vehicles must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected using approved FMD-effective products. Mixing animals from different origins increases disease risk and is discouraged. Animal conveyances must be registered and tracked. 🧼 Approved Disinfectants for FMD Use only registered products containing: Sodium hydroxide 2% […]