The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has fast-tracked approval for the importation of millions of Foot and Mouth Disease vaccine
Image: Timothy Bernard / Independent Newspapers
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has fast-tracked approval for the importation of six million Dollvet vaccine doses in an effort to combat the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) crises
This comes as foot and mouth disease continues to wreak havoc across the country, leaving farmers under severe pressure as authorities race to contain the outbreak and protect livestock.
In a statement released to the media, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen said he welcomed the decision, adding that the accelerated vaccine rollout would strengthen efforts to contain the outbreak.
"This follows a Section 21 permit issued on Friday for two million doses of the Dollvet vaccine. SAHPRA has confirmed that two additional permits for the remaining four million doses will also be issued," Steenhuisen said.
"This phased procurement in lots of two million is a logistical necessity in light of the current conflict in the Middle East. On 1 March 2026, 1.5 million Dollvet vaccines from Turkey arrived in South Africa. Furthermore, Minister Steenhuisen and the department confirm that five million doses Biogénesis Bago vaccines will also be ordered soon. Last month, one million doses of the Biogénesis Bago vaccine from Argentina arrived in the country".
The Minister also stressed the "vital role the private sector has played in navigating the complexities of vaccine acquisition and logistics".
“I want to recognise the vital role the private sector has played in navigating the complexities of vaccine acquisition and logistics. To our farmers and all the role players walking beside the Department of Agriculture in this fight - thank you for your resilience and cooperation.
"We are not fighting this battle alone, and it is through this united front that we will protect our national herd and ensure long-term food security.”
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
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