The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, made this announcement on Wednesday. The minister stated that this is government's effort to prevent a further spread of the disease from the affected areas. The movement of cloven-hoofed animals, their products and genetic material into or out of the affected areas is not allowed, except on authority of a permit issued by the Veterinary Services of the area. To date, 12 positive locations have been identified and placed under quarantine. A number of suspect locations were also identified through clinical investigations, and trace-back/trace-forward exercises, including a commercial feedlot.

The rooibos industry in both the Northern- and Western Cape will reap an abundance of rewards following the announcement that the European Commission has approved the registration of the designation ‘Rooibos’ in its register of Protected Designations of Origin and Protected Geographical Indications. Dirk Trotsky, from the Department of Agriculture in the Western Cape, tells OFM News that this means improved exports and a sense of suitability for Rooibos farmers. He says that they will now be able to export the product to countries that have previously banned the import of Rooibos.

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A new analysis by Statistics SA shows how some food prices have rocketed over the past year, with the price of sunflower oil increasing by more than 30% between May last year and May 2021. News24 reports the average price of a 750ml bottle of sunflower oil was R20,99 a year ago, rising to R29,39 in May. Stats SA reported tomatoes are also more than 30% pricier. Heavy rains at the start of the year in the Limpopo valley have ruined tomato harvests, and wreaked havoc on supplies in the country. This has resulted in a price squeeze. Sweet potato prices have also rocketed. In South Africa, higher food prices have contributed to an annual inflation rate of 5.2% in May, compared to 4.4% in April. This is the highest reading since November 2018. Fuel prices, which are 37% more expensive than it was a year ago, also contributed to higher food prices in South Africa.

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