IN response to the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak currently affecting the southern region of Shiselweni, government has approved a preliminary emergency budget of approximately E40 million.
The decision was made following high-level discussions between Prime Minister Russell Dlamini and National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) Chief Executive Officer Victor Mahlalela held privately at the cabinet offices on Friday.
The outbreak has already impacted at least nine dip tanks in the region, raising concerns over the potential spread of the highly contagious disease to other parts of the country.
In light of the situation, NDMA swiftly implemented control measures, including the establishment of four key FMD security checkpoints across Shiselweni. These are aimed at restricting movement and preventing further transmission.
During the meeting, the PM, who has extensive experience in disaster risk management, provided strategic input on the emergency response plan, emphasising swift action and inter-agency coordination. “There is a need for comprehensive surveillance, community cooperation, and strict biosecurity enforcement to contain the disease,” he said.
In another effort to monitor and reinforce these containment measures, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla toured the FMD security checkpoints in Shiselweni. The checkpoints are located at KaStofu along the Big-Bend- Lavumisa road, at Mhlosheni junction (emaBhananeni), at the Hluti junction to Hosea, and at Mbava along the Siphambanweni and Maloma road.
This follows the ministry of agriculture’s announcement of a foot and mouth disease outbreak in the Shiselweni region approximately two weeks ago.
The outbreak was identified after more than 26 animals were confirmed to be affected by the disease. The first case was reported on May 12, followed by four additional reports that were from the same dip tank known as Sikhwebezi at Mkhwakhweni.
Dladla’s visit sought to raise public awareness, boost enforcement morale, and ensure compliance with protocols aimed at halting the spread of the virus.
“At these checkpoints, every vehicle is thoroughly fumigated as a necessary precaution,” the DPM noted, commending the NDMA for its timely response. She urged checkpoint personnel to remain vigilant and carry out their duties with fairness and diligence. “This is a national issue that requires unity, responsibility, and strict enforcement,” she added.
Dladla was joined by senior officials from the ministry of agriculture, NDMA, Members of Parliament (MPs), the police and Shiselweni Regional Administrator Themba Masuku.
National Commissioner of Police Manoma Vusi Masango also called for increased community policing in affected areas, highlighting the essential role of local law enforcement in ensuring movement restrictions and assisting with disease control.
Foot and Mouth Disease is a viral infection that primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. It causes fever, blisters, and painful sores that interfere with feeding and mobility. The disease spreads rapidly through direct animal contact and contaminated surfaces, including equipment, feed, clothing, and vehicles; making it particularly difficult to contain.
