The declaration of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) as a National Disaster marks a significant and necessary step in responding to the current outbreak and the risk it poses to South Africa’s livestock sector, food security, rural livelihoods and export markets.

This declaration does not mean that the situation is out of control. Rather, it enables government to respond with greater speed, coordination and resource alignment. It provides the legal framework to mobilise additional resources, coordinate national and provincial efforts, streamline procurement of vaccines and biosecurity materials, and strengthen cooperation between agriculture, trade, policing, transport and disaster management authorities.

FMD is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. While it does not pose a food safety risk to humans, its economic impact is severe. Outbreaks result in movement restrictions, loss of export status, market disruptions and significant financial strain across the value chain.

What This Declaration Is – and What It Is Not
It is important to clarify that the classification of FMD as a National Disaster is not the same as the National State of Disaster declared during Covid-19 under section 27 of the Disaster Management Act.