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There will be no classes for cloven-hoofed animals at the 2026 Bloem Show due to the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) crisis in South Africa. This was confirmed by Elmarie Prinsloo, chief executive officer of Bloem Show.
“Given the current FMD situation in the country, it is crucial that the risk of further spread to cattle, sheep and goat breeders and producers is limited as far as possible,” she said. “As a result, the Bloem Show cattle and small-stock competitions for 2026 have been cancelled.”
The decision followed extensive consultations with industry leaders and other stakeholders.
Prinsloo noted that current data indicate the peak of the outbreaks has not yet been reached. While intensive efforts are under way behind the scenes and the minister of agriculture, John Steenhuisen, recently announced a national strategy, timelines and ongoing risks remain a significant challenge for the 2026 Bloem Show.
Other divisions continue
Bloem Show will, however, proceed in all other divisions and will take place from 23 April to 2 May this year. “The National Saddle Horse Show, horse competitions, as well as the commercial exhibition with exhibitors, entertainment, a funfair, and food stalls, are all in place and will be presented with great enthusiasm,” Prinsloo said.
“We are confident that all role-players, including breeders, producers, breeder societies, the agricultural community, service providers, and members of the public, will understand the situation and support this difficult decision.”
Still early days for the Royal Show
Meanwhile, according to Wayne Muller, general manager of the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS), planning for the Royal Show at its new premises at Tweedie Hall in Howick is continuing as normal, although there are serious concerns about support for stud animal classes.
“We are currently surrounded by at least six positive cases, so I cannot see stud breeders bringing their animals to the show,” Muller said. “I do believe, however, that the slaughter classes will go ahead, as they pose no risk of spreading FMD.”
Biosecurity measures, he said, are a critical discussion point and involve not only animals entering and leaving the show, but also people. Several other events in KwaZulu-Natal, including non-agricultural events, have already been cancelled due to the risk of spreading the disease across farms. These include the Drak Challenge canoe race in Underberg, a trail run taking place at the same time, and several park runs held across farmland.
Discussions with the various breed societies are ongoing to explore all available options, as the show must go on, Muller added. – Izak Hofmeyr, Plaas Media
For more information, contact Bloem Show at 051 448 9894 and RAS on 033 345 6274.
