FMD vaccination drive reaches Ntbankulu village as farmers respond to livestock threat

Farmers in Mnceba village near Ntbankulu gathered this week for a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination drive led by the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture, following concerns about a possible spread of the disease among local livestock.

According to the Department, the campaign was triggered after a local farmer, Mr Baxolele Fumba, raised alarm about the risk of infection. Animal Health Technician Lindelwa Mnukwa, working with veterinary health teams, coordinated the response through the Department’s Customer Care system.

Officials say the turnout was strong, with farmers bringing their animals to be vaccinated in an effort to protect their herds. The Department described the intervention as a success and thanked farmers for cooperating with veterinary teams on the ground.

FMD is a highly contagious disease that can severely affect cattle and other livestock, threatening rural livelihoods where farming is a primary source of income. In areas like Ntbankulu and surrounding villages, even a small outbreak can disrupt food supply, income, and local trade.

For many households in Pondoland, livestock is not just an economic asset but also tied to cultural practices and family security. Preventing disease outbreaks is therefore critical to both livelihoods and community stability.

While the Department has not reported an active outbreak in Mnc eba, the rapid response highlights growing awareness among farmers and the importance of early reporting.

Local impact is clear: proactive vaccination could prevent losses that many rural families cannot afford. However, it remains unclear whether similar vaccination drives will be rolled out in nearby villages.

Farmers are encouraged to report any unusual symptoms in livestock to local veterinary services and to cooperate with future vaccination programmes.

We will update this story if more information becomes available on further FMD prevention efforts across the Eastern Cape.