South Africa’s agriculture minister, Willie Aucamp, has appointed two new members to the Industry Coordination Council tasked with overseeing the national foot-and-mouth disease strategy. The appointments of Dr Theo de Jager and Dr Danie Odendaal come as the government ramps up efforts to control the livestock disease, which has affected several regions.
The new members bring expertise in veterinary science and livestock management, according to the ministry. Their inclusion aims to strengthen the coordination of measures to prevent the spread of the disease. The council plays a central role in implementing policies and guidelines to protect the country’s livestock industry.
The foot-and-mouth disease has caused significant economic losses in recent months, prompting urgent action from authorities. The government has been working closely with farmers and industry stakeholders to improve biosecurity and vaccination programs. The addition of these two experts is seen as a step toward more effective disease control.
The ministry has not provided further details on the timeline for the new members’ involvement, but officials have emphasized the importance of collaboration in managing the outbreak. (iol.co.za)
