FMD SYMPOSIUM 2026
EVENT OVERVIEW
A Landmark Event for the Livestock Industry
On 31 July 2026, Octavoscene proudly hosted the
Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) Symposium, bringing together
approximately 700 to 1,000 delegates from across the
livestock industry for a day dedicated to education, collaboration
and professional engagement.
As one of the largest and most successful educational events ever
organised by Octavoscene, the symposium reflected the industry’s
shared commitment to strengthening animal health, enhancing
biosecurity and encouraging the exchange of scientific knowledge.
The educational programme offered delegates access to international
perspectives alongside South African industry knowledge, creating an
environment that encouraged learning, discussion and collaboration.
Throughout the day, delegates actively participated in networking
opportunities, meaningful conversations and the exchange of practical
ideas that continue to support the future of animal health,
sustainable livestock production and the agricultural sector as a whole.
The exceptional attendance and positive engagement throughout the event
made the symposium a proud milestone in Octavoscene’s history.
700–1,000
Delegates Attended
Global Perspectives
International Viewpoints
Knowledge Exchange
Sharing Knowledge
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
A Day That Exceeded Expectations
The 2026 FMD Symposium welcomed an exceptional number of delegates
from across South Africa, creating a vibrant environment dedicated
to learning, collaboration and industry engagement. The impressive
turnout reflected the importance of continued knowledge sharing
within the livestock sector.
Throughout the day, attendees participated in a comprehensive
educational programme that incorporated both international
perspectives and South African industry knowledge. Discussions
centred on strengthening biosecurity, advancing animal health
and encouraging practical solutions for the future of livestock
production.
The outstanding attendance and positive engagement confirmed the
symposium as one of Octavoscene’s largest and most successful
educational events to date, reinforcing its commitment to
delivering world-class industry events.
EVENT GALLERY
A Look Back at the FMD Symposium
From a packed auditorium to meaningful conversations and
moments of collaboration, the FMD Symposium brought together
the livestock industry for a memorable day of learning,
engagement and knowledge sharing.
INDUSTRY IMPACT
Strengthening Knowledge Across the Industry
The FMD Symposium created an important platform for professionals
across the livestock sector to come together, share knowledge and
engage with issues that continue to shape animal health and
livestock production.
With contributions reflecting both international perspectives and
South African industry knowledge, the programme encouraged delegates
to consider the importance of collaboration, education and effective
biosecurity in protecting the livestock sector.
Beyond the formal programme, the event provided valuable opportunities
for delegates to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas and build
relationships across the industry. These conversations form an
important part of creating a stronger and more informed livestock
community.
700–1,000
DELEGATES BROUGHT TOGETHER
A strong representation from across the livestock industry, united by a shared commitment to knowledge, collaboration
and animal health.
Looking Ahead
A Successful Day of Learning and Collaboration
The 2026 FMD Symposium stands as a proud milestone for Octavoscene, bringing together the livestock industry for a memorable day of education, engagement and knowledge exchange.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this important event and to the delegates who joined us on 31 July 2026.
The success of the symposium reflects the value of bringing the livestock industry together around shared knowledge, collaboration and a commitment to animal health. The momentum created by the event provides a strong foundation for continued industry engagement and future educational events.