food security south africalatest news & developments
Unprecedented challenges: Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen acknowledged the severe impact of the disease on South Africa’s livestock sector since the country lost its FMD-free status in 2019. Photo: Supplied

New 10-year plan to combat foot-and-mouth disease

However, commercial farmers say that vaccine shortages and slow implementation are worsening a devastating crisis

  • Sheree Bega
9 min read
Within the SACU region, there is supposed to be free movement of agricultural goods, with a few exceptions, including national security and when there are crop and animal diseases. (Madelene Cronje)

Poultry sector recovering, prices not expected to increase

The health of the sector depends on how well it contains future avian influenza outbreaks, experts say

  • Aarti Bhana
3 min read
Decisions about the risk and spread of HPAI into South Africa must be taken by the South African authorities — not ceded to the United States, or any other exporting country.(Jamie McDonald/Getty Images)

SA poultry industry slams US bird flu import concessions as risk to food security

The decision allowing America to lift or impose export bans during outbreaks ‘will be devastating’

  • Des Erasmus
6 min read
Among the other demands is for the government to implement its 2010 pesticide policy and to integrate this with a food security plan that reduces reliance on chemicals for pest control. (Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Petition seeks ban on Terbufos, highly hazardous pesticides within three months

Stop scapegoating spaza shops when regulation failure is to blame for poisoning deaths, groups say

  • Sheree Bega
5 min read
Agriculture Ministure John Steenhuisen. Photo: Dwayne Senior/Getty Images

Steenhuisen to discuss vet shortages with officials

Veterinarians are leaving South Africa for better opportunities and those staying behind are struggling to plug the gap This content is restricted to registered users and subscribers. Get Your Free Account The Mail & Guardian is committed to providing all our readers with the best possible experience. Please register your free account now. Your registration is your first step to becoming an M&G community member. Register Registration enables: – M&G newsletters access – notifications – the best possible experience Already registered? Login here Want to subscribe and get even more benefits? Explore our subscription offers

  • Aarti Bhana
1 min read