MAHIKENG. – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has strengthened its response to foot-and-mouth disease after 17 new cases were recorded across the province.
Where cases were found
According to the department, the new cases were recorded in the Mahikeng, Rustenburg, Kagisano-Molopo, Ditsobotla, Lekwa-Teemane and Naledi local municipalities. Naledi accounted for the highest number with seven cases, while Mahikeng and Kagisano-Molopo each recorded three.
Why it matters
Foot-and-mouth disease affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and buffalo, and poses a serious threat to the livestock industry and food security. Authorities said they were strengthening disease management interventions to prevent further transmission of the highly contagious disease.
