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The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has successfully manufactured the first 12 900 vials of multistrand foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine, and it is ready for shipment. According to a press release from the ARC, the vaccine covers all three virus strains currently present in South Africa (SAT1, SAT2 and SAT3).
Tomorrow, the minister of agriculture, John Steenhuisen, along with several industry leaders and members of the media, will visit the site. Plaas Media will provide further coverage after the event.
The ARC describes this achievement as a historic milestone in animal health. It represents a major step forward in strengthening the country’s capacity to protect its livestock industry, safeguard food security, and reduce dependence on imported vaccines.
A fierce enemy
FMD is one of the most contagious viral diseases affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. Outbreaks, such as the one currently being experienced, can have devastating economic consequences, disrupting trade, limiting animal movement, and threatening farmers’ livelihoods. The availability of a locally manufactured vaccine, even at a small scale, is a gamechanger for South Africa’s agricultural sector.
The vaccine was developed and produced by ARC scientists and technical experts, using local infrastructure and expertise. Twenty years of research and governmental investment have culminated in its registration (Reg. No. G1944) as a stock remedy under Act 36/1947. As a result, this first batch meets stringent quality, safety, and efficacy requirements.
A humble beginning
Producing the FMD vaccine locally, even at a small scale at this stage, offers several important advantages. It enables faster response times during outbreaks, improved alignment of vaccine strains with those circulating in the region, and greater control over supply chains. In addition, local production strengthens national scientific capacity and contributes to skills development and job creation within the biotechnology and veterinary manufacturing sectors.
The release of this first batch of 12 900 multi-strain FMD vaccines also signals South Africa’s commitment to biosecurity and animal disease preparedness. By investing in domestic vaccine production, the country is strengthening its ability to prevent, control, and ultimately reduce the impact of transboundary animal diseases.
For farmers, the locally produced FMD vaccine will bring renewed confidence and, over time, more reliable access to vaccines. This is essential for maintaining healthy herds, sustaining productivity, and protecting access to both domestic and international markets. For consumers, it supports a stable supply of safe and affordable animal-derived food products.
As the first doses are rolled out, this achievement stands as a proud moment for the ARC and a showcase of South African science and agricultural capacity. It demonstrates what can be achieved through strategic investment, collaboration, and a shared commitment to protecting the nation’s livestock and food systems.
The successful release of the first locally produced FMD vaccine batch is not only a scientific accomplishment, but also a strategic national asset that will continue to benefit South Africa’s agricultural economy for years to come. Following this milestone, the ARC has completed the design of the new production facility, which will enable vaccine self-reliance in support of the ministerial disease control strategy. – ARC Press release reworked by Plaas Media.
