By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
The FMD(Foot and Mouth Disease) outbreak has disorientated the farming industry in South Africa, resulting in a major loss of livestock. Mpumalanga province was also adversely affected by the crisis.
In an urgent attempt to remedy the situation, Mpumalanga DARDLEA(Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs), led by MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi, held an induction ceremony in Mbombela , to welcome 21 new veterinarians to the province as part of the CCS(Compulsory Community Service (CCS) program.
The young professionals will be deployed to State Vet Offices across the province for a 12-month period to strengthen animal health services and support the agricultural sector.
According to DARDLEA, the CCS program started 11 years ago with the aim to benefit far flung rural communities with veterinary services through the professionals’ experience.
Speaking during the ceremony, MEC Moeketsi said the young professionals came at a right time when their services are desperately needed in the wake of the FMD outbreak.
She wished the young Vets all of the best in the year ahead, calling on their dedication and impactful role in ensuring animal health services, supporting both farmers and pet owners alike.
MEC Moeketsi said the CCS program will be rolled out from Friday 13 February 2026 in Dipaleseng Local Municipality, under Gert Sibande District, which has been identified as a hotspot for the FMD outbreak.
“ As a province we are facing a crisis of foot and mouth disease, particularly in Nkangala and Gert Sibande. They are here to do their work and we are expecting them to put their focus on this foot and mouth outbreak. We are excited and the plan of working together with government, will be put in place and will be able to rescue our animals from these diseases,” said MEC Moeketsi.
According to the MEC, the CCS program will move to other Districts across the province to vaccinate animals that a mostly affected. Moeketsi has confirmed that the National Department is in full support of the program and will also be assisting with the vaccination program.
