According to the national FMD Reporting System, 2 211 outbreaks remain active, while only 38 have been closed, indicating that the livestock industry remains in the grip of one of the country’s most extensive animal disease outbreaks in recent history.
The latest data show that while some provinces remain long-standing hotspots, outbreaks are being reported across an increasing number of municipalities, highlighting the challenges facing the national disease control programme.
Free State is the hardest hit
The Free State remains the province most severely affected by FMD, with 591 reported outbreaks. The highest concentrations are in the local municipalities of Moqhaka (118 outbreaks), Ngwathe (87), Mafube (74), and Metsimaholo (65).
North West follows with 358 outbreaks, while KwaZulu-Natal has recorded 336. Gauteng and Mpumalanga have recorded 275 and 247 outbreaks, respectively, underlining the extent to which the disease has spread beyond the original outbreak areas.
Eastern Cape developments raise concern
One of the most notable developments is the rapid expansion of outbreaks in the Eastern Cape. The province now has 325 confirmed outbreaks, with the largest clusters reported in the municipalities of Amahlathi (53 outbreaks), Raymond Mhlaba (38), Ngquza Hill (32), Elundini (24), and Enoch Mgijima (24).
The growing outbreak burden is of particular concern given the province’s significant beef and dairy industries.
KwaZulu-Natal still under pressure
Despite being one of the first provinces affected by the current FMD crisis and a primary target of vaccination efforts, KwaZulu-Natal continues to report widespread disease activity.
The highest numbers of outbreaks are recorded in Ulundi (38), Nongoma (36), Big 5 Hlabisa (23), and uPhongolo (20).
The persistence of outbreaks in the province suggests that FMD remains entrenched in some areas despite years of control measures.
Disease spreads across key livestock regions
In Gauteng, the highest outbreak numbers are recorded in the City of Tshwane and Ekurhuleni, with 50 each, followed by Lesedi and Midvaal, both with 44.
Mpumalanga’s largest outbreak clusters are found in Dipaleseng (43), Steve Tshwete (34), Lekwa (32), and Nkomazi (24).
These areas are important livestock production regions and movement corridors, raising concerns about ongoing disease transmission.
FMD relatively contained in Western Cape
The Western Cape remains one of the least affected provinces, with 22 outbreaks reported. Most cases are concentrated in Mossel Bay (seven), the City of Cape Town (five), Drakenstein (three), and Swartland (three).
The Northern Cape has reported 16 outbreaks, while Limpopo currently stands at 79, rounding off the provincial picture.
