Africa-Press – Eswatini. Minister of Agriculture, Mandla Tshawuka urged communities across Eswatini to stop the illegal movement of livestock and animal products as government intensifies efforts to contain the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease.
Speaking during the official opening of Mphembekati Dipping Tank, the Minister said strict adherence to movement controls is essential to protect the national herd and prevent further outbreaks.
Tshawuka said the continued spread of the disease from Mkhwakwheni in the Shiselweni Region to areas in Lubombo including Lubuli, Mambane, Mpaka and Matsetsa has raised serious concern. He said despite the establishment of new checkpoints and mass vaccination in affected zones, unauthorised movement remains a key driver of transmission.
He strongly warned farmers and the public against transporting prohibited items such as beef, dairy products, kraal manure, grass, hay bales, hides and skins beyond controlled areas. He said these products pose a high risk of spreading the virus into clean zones, undoing the progress made by the Ministry and veterinary officials.
“ We are getting reports that people continue to illegally move livestock and livestock products from infected areas to clean areas,” he said, urging Emaswati to act responsibly by cooperating with officers stationed at the five active checkpoints located at Sigcaweni Mphosi Road, Mbadlane, Mpolonjeni Nyetane Junction, Njojane and Lukhula.
The Minister further encouraged communities to play an active role in detection by reporting any suspicious symptoms in animals to the nearest veterinary office or through the tollfree number 112. He said early reporting will help officials respond quickly and prevent new infections.
Tshawuka emphasised that government has placed all required control measures to curb the disease and remains committed to protecting livestock farmers. He said with community cooperation, stronger vigilance and continued vaccination, Eswatini will overcome the outbreak and restore animal health and productivity across the country.
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