Western Cape tightens border controls to contain FMD outbreak

The Western Cape Government has intensified border controls and monitoring of livestock movements to curb the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. Authorities warned that unauthorised movement of animals poses a direct risk to the province and said enforcement will be firm, with compliance measures strengthened at key entry points and traffic checks.

National and provincial authorities have stressed that coordinated action, backed by provincial readiness and expertise, is essential to protect farmers, rural employment and the wider livestock economy in South Africa. Delays in containing the disease risk undermining food security and confidence across the agricultural sector.

The province has reaffirmed its support for national interventions, including participation in the national task team and transparent vaccine rollout processes. Public awareness campaigns and on-the-ground inspections are being stepped up to reduce the risk of further spread and to support recovery in affected livestock industries.