South Africa has introduced a new online system allowing livestock owners to apply for permission to self-vaccinate their animals against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), marking a key step in the country's efforts to control outbreaks and restore its FMD-free status.

Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp launched the digital platform, which enables cattle owners and farm managers to take greater responsibility in managing FMD risks while adhering to biosecurity and reporting requirements.

Under the system, livestock owners must first apply to become 'Authorised Persons' through the FMD Reporting platform, then notify Provincial Veterinary Services at least five days before administering vaccines.Approved applicants can obtain vaccines from authorised veterinarians and submit detailed vaccination reports within 14 days.The initiative aims to meet legal, traceability, and biosecurity standards while improving oversight of the national vaccination campaign.

Data from private-sector reporting platforms like RMIS and SAAI will be integrated into the Department of Agriculture's monitoring systems to demonstrate progress to international authorities like the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

The government will continue providing vaccines in outbreak areas and to financially disadvantaged farmers, while encouraging collaboration between agricultural groups, vaccine importers, and veterinarians to ensure adequate supply.

This move is expected to accelerate vaccination efforts, enhance disease surveillance, and strengthen South Africa's bid to regain FMD-free status while protecting the livestock industry.