All gatherings of these animals, including at auctions, livestock shows, and speculative transactions, are discouraged. This follows the recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the Molemole district municipal area in Limpopo which is at this stage no longer limited to just one farm. Four additional farms, of which most are feedlots, are now affected.

Dr Botlhe Modisane told OFM News’ Christal-Lize Muller the fact that more than one farm is involved, shows the seriousness of the situation and the department's intention with the announcement to temporarily suspend livestock auctions in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Gauteng, and North West, is to prevent the spread of the disease.

He appeals to all livestock farmers, speculators, auctioneers, and transporters to be aware of the suspension of live auctions and if they suspect animals are affected, they need to report it to their nearest state or private veterinarians. Transporters must also avoid being involved in any unnecessary movement of animals from restricted to unrestricted areas. Auctioneers must try suspend auction activities and engage in other forms of auctioning. Animals can be sold on respective farms.

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OFM News