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Small-scale pig farmers in Ugie, Eastern Cape, are raising concerns over a suspected outbreak of African swine fever following the deaths of large numbers of pigs. The situation has reportedly led some farmers to slaughter their pigs before they begin showing signs of illness, while many livestock-dependent households fear further losses.
Affected farmers have reported symptoms including weight loss, loss of appetite and unusual behaviour before the animals die. The outbreak poses a serious threat to rural communities, where small-scale livestock farming remains an important source of income and livelihood.
In response, the provincial government has deployed veterinary officials and animal health technicians to assess the situation. Samples will be collected and sent for laboratory testing, with African swine fever currently suspected because of the disease’s high mortality rate and rapid spread among pigs.
August 19, 2026/South Africa- Eastern Cape/
https://www.sabcnews.com/
