The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (KZN DARD) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting livestock farmers affected by Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) through a targeted recovery initiative. In collaboration with BKB Auctioneers, KZN DARD hosted a structured livestock auction on 02 September 2025 at KwaMgqomo farm in Mthonjaneni Local Municipality under King Cetshwayo District.

This event follows the recent provincial launch of FMD auctions in Ulundi by the Hon. MEC Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, which the FMD zones were declared under strict veterinary supervision to ensure that only animals from disease-free areas are sold.

Speaking during the auction, Induna Mthethwa from Entembeni thanked the Department for its continued support amid the challenges of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)."The past three years have been difficult for rural livestock farmers. These auctions bring much-needed relief, helping us support our families and send our children to school. We are grateful to the Department for facilitating this sale, which restores hope for rebuilding our rural economy," he said.

He urged the Department to continue hosting similar auctions and to intensify efforts to combat FMD in rural areas until it is fully eradicated. "We also commit to playing our part by adhering to all rules and regulations aimed at stopping the spread of FMD," he concluded.

The auction forms part of the broader FMD Recovery Programme, which seeks to rebuild the agricultural economy and ensure the long-term resilience of communal and emerging farmers in the region. KwaMgqomo farm was selected as a central venue due to its accessibility and the active participation of local livestock farmers in disease containment efforts.

The auction provided a formal platform for farmers to reintroduce healthy, vaccinated animals into trade channels under strict veterinary oversight. Through collaboration with KZN DARD Veterinary Services, ARC-LNR and auctioneering partners, the event followed all biosecurity protocols, ensuring the continued safety of both livestock and human stakeholders.

This initiative has brought renewed hope to farmers whose livelihoods were severely impacted by the outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in recent years. By facilitating regulated trade and promoting market access, KZN DARD aims to restore farmer confidence, stabilize rural economies and promote sustainable livestock production. Special emphasis was placed on small-holder and communal farmers who are most vulnerable to the economic shocks caused by disease outbreaks.

District Director of King Cetshwayo, Mr. Sipho Shandu, underscored the importance of the auction as part of KZN DARD’s broader recovery strategy. He noted that this initiative addresses both the immediate impact of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and the long-term sustainability of the livestock sector. “This auction reflects the Department’s commitment to rebuilding the livestock economy and ensuring inclusive agricultural development,” said Shandu.

He further stated that the success of the KwaMgqomo auction serves as a model for future interventions in other affected areas.