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Mahikeng – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has made
significant progress in its ongoing efforts to control Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in the province,
with more than 1.3 million animals vaccinated since the launch of the mass vaccination campaign in
March 2026.

The vaccination programme is being implemented in collaboration with livestock farmers, veterinary
services, Animal Health Technicians and other industry stakeholders as part of efforts to contain the
spread of the disease and protect the province’s livestock herd.
To date, the province has received 1 570 100 doses of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine and has
successfully vaccinated 1 315 401 animals, achieving more than 80% coverage of the provincial target
herd of 1.4 million animals.

The vaccination campaign forms part of the broader national response to FMD and is aimed at
protecting the livestock industry, supporting food security and safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers
who depend on livestock production.
As of 14 August 2026, the province had recorded 479 confirmed FMD cases across all four districts.
The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District remains the most affected area, with 213 confirmed cases,
followed by Ngaka Modiri Molema District with 93 cases, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District with 92 cases and
Bojanala District with 81 cases.

Of the 479 confirmed cases, 333 remain active and are being monitored and managed by veterinary
teams, while 146 cases have been closed. The closure of cases has been recorded in areas including
Molopo, Rustenburg and Mahikeng, which is an encouraging indication of progress in managing the
outbreak. This progress reflects the combined efforts of vaccination, disease surveillance and other
control measures being implemented across the province.
While welcoming the progress made, the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development has cautioned
farmers against becoming complacent and urged livestock owners to continue working closely with
veterinary teams on the ground. “The progress we are making in the fight against Foot-and-Mouth
Disease is encouraging, but we cannot afford to become complacent. I urge all livestock farmers to
continue cooperating with our veterinary officials on the ground and to comply with the disease control
and biosecurity measures that are in place.
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“To those farmers we are still to reach, I appeal for patience and continued cooperation. Our teams
are working around the clock to reach every farmer and ensure that livestock are vaccinated and that
the necessary disease control measures are implemented. We understand the concerns of farmers who
are still waiting to be reached, and we want to assure them that our teams are working tirelessly to
reach every affected area.

“The success of this programme depends on all of us. Farmers must continue practising good
biosecurity, controlling the movement of their animals and reporting any suspected cases without delay.
Government will continue doing its part, but we need the cooperation of every livestock owner to bring
this outbreak under control,” said MEC Sambatha
The Department reiterates that vaccination must be supported by strict biosecurity, responsible animal
movement and compliance with veterinary regulations to prevent further spread of FMD. Livestock
owners are urged to remain vigilant, maintain proper traceability of their animals and report any
suspected cases immediately to their nearest State Veterinarian, Private Veterinarian, Animal Health
Technician or Extension Officer.

Issued by:
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Communication Services Directorate
For interviews, contact the Departmental Spokesperson
Ms Emelda Setlhako
Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard

Klerksdorp – Women farmers from across the North West who attended the Provincial

Women Farmers Dialogue in Klerksdorp on Monday, 31 August 2026, have welcomed the

engagement as an important platform for addressing barriers facing women in agriculture and

identifying practical solutions to strengthen their farming enterprises and improve their

livelihoods.

Hosted by the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the dialogue

brought together women farmers, government stakeholders, financial institutions, and other

key players in the agricultural sector to discuss challenges affecting women’s participation and

advancement. Key issues raised included access to land, infrastructure, farming inputs,

finance, training, technology, processing facilities, transport and reliable markets. Participants

stressed the need for coordinated support to enable women farmers to participate more

effectively across the agricultural value chain.

One of the participating farmers, Boipelo Barnard from the Greater Taung area, who is also a

member of the District Women in Agriculture and Rural Development (WARD) structure,

described the dialogue as a valuable platform for learning, engagement and networking.

Reflecting on her experience, Barnard said she was pleased to be part of the dialogue and

valued the opportunity to interact with women who have already established themselves in

the agricultural sector.

“As a woman farmer, I was happy to be part of this dialogue. It was a very interesting and

enriching session, and a privilege to engage with women who have already made their mark

in the agricultural sector. Listening to their experiences and interacting with them was what I

enjoyed most.”

“Platforms such as this allow us to engage directly with key stakeholders, share our challenges

and find practical solutions that can help our businesses grow, become sustainable and create

jobs in our communities. As women farmers, we welcome this dialogue and hope that similar

discussions can be held more regularly,” said Barnard.

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Addressing the dialogue, the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha,

said women farmers must be supported to move beyond subsistence farming and develop

profitable, sustainable agricultural enterprises that contribute to economic growth, food

security, and job creation. He reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an enabling

environment for women farmers through targeted support programmes, improved access to

agricultural opportunities, and strategic partnerships aimed at helping them expand and

strengthen their operations.

“Women are making a significant contribution to agriculture and must have equal

opportunities to participate across the entire value chain, from production and processing to

marketing,” said MEC Sambatha.

MEC Sambatha called on businesses, financial institutions, development organisations, and

commodity bodies to strengthen collaboration in support of women farmers.

“Government, business, financial institutions, development organisations and commodity

bodies all hold different pieces of the solution. When they work together around the

entrepreneur, rather than leaving individuals to navigate a fragmented system alone, the

potential for sustainable growth becomes much stronger,” said MEC Sambatha.

The dialogue provided an important platform for women farmers and key stakeholders to

identify priority areas requiring intervention, share experiences and challenges, and

strengthen partnerships aimed at advancing women’s participation and empowerment within

the agricultural sector across the province.

 

Issued by:

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

Communication Services Directorate

For interviews, contact the Departmental Spokesperson

Ms Emelda Setlhako

Tel: 018 384 3117 / Cell: 060 745 4020

Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za

Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/

X: @nwpg_dard

Invitation to submit names for the upcoming Women’s Health Seminar and Public Service Women Manager Week

MAHIKENG – The MEC for the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural
Development, Madoda Sambatha, has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family,
friends and loved ones of Mr Itumeleng Lengana, a farmer from Modikwe in the Bojanala
Platinum District, who was reportedly murdered over the weekend.
The tragical loss of Mr. Itumeleng Lengana is deeply saddening and entirely unacceptable.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. “I call on community
members to assist the law enforcement by providing any relevant information to aid the
investigation. Community partnership with police remains essential in defeating crime and
safeguarding our rural areas. Farmers are the backbone to our food security, economic
growth, and rural development, and their safety must be always safeguarded. said MEC
Sambatha.
In this time of profound sorrow, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural
Development reaffirms its unwavering support for the Lengana family and the entire
agricultural community.
Issued by:
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Communication Services Directorate
For enquiries, contact Prince Seokotsa
Cell : 078 456 6352
Email : PSeokotsa@nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng– Farmer support and rural development were firmly in the spotlight when North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, delivered the Department’s Budget Vote and Policy Speech on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 at the North West Provincial Legislature. The R1.2 billion budget sets out focused measures aimed at improving support for farmers and strengthening agricultural production in the province.

A key feature of the budget is investment in farmer skills development, with R8 327 100 allocated totrain more than 2 200 farmers in crop production, animal production and agro-processing. This training is expected to improve productivity and help farmers meet required standards.

To strengthen ongoing support, the Department has allocated R10 649 100 for farmer mentorship programmes. This will provide practical guidance to farmers and improve farm management and
sustainability. In addition, R12 053 923 has been set aside to support unemployed agricultural graduates through training and stipends. This intervention aims to grow a new generation of farmers and build capacity within the sector. These combined initiatives bring the total investment in farmer development to R22 703 023, reflecting a focused effort to equip farmers with the skills and support needed to grow their enterprises.

The budget also prioritises production support, with R153.1 million allocated through the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP). This funding will assist farmers with inputs
such as seeds, fertiliser and infrastructure to improve output.

To ensure farmers receive technical assistance, MEC Sambatha has announced a budget of R35.5 million for extension and advisory services. This will help improve access to expertise and strengthen service delivery across farming communities.

“This investment is meant to bring services closer to farmers and ensure that the support they need is available where they operate. Through strengthened extension and advisory services, we are
working to improve access to technical expertise, enhance productivity and assist farmers to run sustainable and competitive enterprises,” said MEC Sambatha

Farmers have welcomed the budget, noting its focus on practical support. Kesaobaka Sejesho, an emerging poultry farmer and agro-processor from Christiana in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati
District Municipality, said: “I am encouraged by this year’s DARD budget vote. It is refreshing to see a stronger focus on supporting youth, women, agro-processors, and poultry farmers. As an emerging poultry farmer and agro-processor working towards becoming a commercial producer, I finally feel seen and included in this vision.

“I am particularly encouraged by the commitment to commercialising emerging farmers, strengthening agro-processing, investing in skills development, and creating employment opportunities. These are the kinds of interventions that can transform small farming businesses into sustainable commercial enterprises. My hope is that the budget allocated will translate into real opportunities on the ground, helping emerging farmers grow, create jobs, and contribute to the economy, especially after the significant employment losses our province has experienced. I look forward to seeing these commitments become tangible results, and I hope that next year we will be telling a very different success story for agriculture in the North West,” Sejesho said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Neo Mohlamme, a farmer from the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, said the speech covered key areas affecting farmers, including rural projects and farmer development
initiatives. She noted that it reflects the realities faced by farmers and highlights areas that requireattention.

She further welcomed the Department’s plans to assist farmers without land, saying this would create opportunities for new entrants and enable more people to participate in agriculture and expand production.

The budget sets out a clear direction for farmer support, with focus on skills development, production support and improved access to opportunities as the Department works to grow the agricultural sector. The Department has called on farmers, stakeholders and partners to work together to ensure that the planned interventions translate into real impact on the ground, strengthen rural livelihoods and contribute to economic growth across the province.

Ends
Issued by
The Communication Services Directorate
Enquiries: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Tel: 018 384 3117/ Cell: 060 745 4020
Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Website:www.nwpg.gov.za/Agriculture/
Facebook:www.facebook.com/nwdard

Mahikeng- The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in the North West Province confirms that
129,808 doses out of the 150,000 vaccines allocated have been administered, representing 86% usage. While
this marks steady progress in the vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), the
Department acknowledges that more work lies ahead to ensure full coverage across all affected areas.
To date, 210 confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) have been reported across all municipalities of
the province, affecting different types of livestock. The majority of these reported cases involve cattle, with
206 cases, while 3 cases were in pigs and 1 case in goats.

The highest number of cases was recorded in Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District with 62 animals, followed by
Bojanala District with 59 animals. In Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, 49 animals were affected, while
Ngaka Modiri Molema District reported 40 animals. These figures highlight the spread of the disease across
species and districts, reinforcing the urgency of continued vaccination and vigilance.
Additional vaccine consignments are expected soon, which will allow the Department to extend coverage and
strengthen disease control measures. The campaign remains focused on vaccinating confirmed positive
animals, ring vaccination around buffalo farms, protecting dairy herds, and mass vaccination of cloven-hoofed
animals across the province.

The Department further encourages farmers to use permanent ear-tags with unique numbers to help speed up
the identification and vaccination of animals. Farmers and stakeholders are also urged to report any suspicion
of FMD immediately to local veterinarians or animal health technicians. Early reporting and cooperation remain
vital in preventing further spread and protecting the province’s agricultural sector.
MEC Madoda Sambatha has expressed appreciation for the patience and cooperation of farmers during this
challenging period. He assured farming communities that every farmer and every animal will be covered as
more vaccine doses arrive, and emphasized that the Department remains committed to working hand-in-hand
with stakeholders to contain the outbreak and safeguard livelihoods.

Issued by:

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Communication Services Directorate
For interviews, contact the Departmental Spokesperson: Ms. Emelda Setlhako
Cell 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is driving forward
with unprecedented energy in the fight against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). The vaccination
campaign has surged across all local municipalities, marking a decisive step in protecting the
province’s livestock and agricultural economy.

To date, over 111,297 animals have been vaccinated, with intensified operations continuing daily
and over weekends to maximize coverage. This effort follows the confirmation of 190 FMD cases
across the province, affecting cattle, pigs, and goats. The majority of infections are in cattle (186
cases), while pigs account for 3 cases and goats for 1 case. District-level figures reveal 61 cases in
Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, 56 in Bojanala, 37 in Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, and 36 in Ngaka Modiri
Molema.

The arrival of vaccines from Turkey (Dolvet) has further accelerated the campaign, with another
consignment expected soon to sustain the momentum. Farmers are urged to ensure their animals
are tagged with permanent identification numbers to speed up vaccination and tracking.

Speaking at one of the vaccination campaign sites, MEC Madoda Sambatha said: “We have
intensified the campaign by putting every resource at our disposal. The fight against Foot and Mouth
Disease is a fight for the heart of our province’s economy, and every vaccinated animal represents a
victory for food security, rural livelihoods, and the dignity of our farmers. To those villages and
farmers we have not yet reached, know that we will be there soon. No community will be left
behind. This campaign belongs to all of us, and together we will overcome it.”

Farmers and stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspected cases immediately to their local
veterinary offices for swift intervention. The Department reiterates its commitment to working
closely with farmers to curb the spread of FMD and safeguard the livestock industry.

Issued by:

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Communication Services Directorate

For interviews, contact the Departmental Spokesperson: Ms. Emelda Setlhako
Cell 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng – The rollout of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines in the North West Province has officially
begun, with the first batch of cattle receiving injections as part of an intensified campaign to stop the
outbreak. This marks a decisive step in the province’s response, with the vaccination drive now in full swing
across affected districts to protect livestock, farmers, and rural communities.
FMD has already spread to 16 of the province’s 18 municipalities, with a combined total of 158 confirmed
cases across all four districts.

To curb the spread, the Department has secured 100,000 doses of Biogenesis Bago FMD Virus Vaccines,
unveiled by MEC Madoda Sambatha during a press conference held at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture
last Thursday, 05 March 2026.

MEC Sambatha stressed that vaccines will be distributed across all districts to ensure fairness and equal
access. “While priority will be given to the most affected areas, no farmer or village will be left behind.
Communal villages, where livestock movement and limited biosecurity measures increase risk, will be a
critical focus to build herd immunity and cut off transmission pathways,” MEC Sambatha said.

Alongside vaccination, veterinary teams are conducting daily outreach, information sessions, and biosecurity
awareness campaigns across the province. Priority is also being given to precautionary quarantine farms and
areas near buffalo populations, which are known carriers of the virus.

MEC Sambatha appealed directly to farmers, stressing the importance of early reporting: “Farmers must not
keep quiet when they see signs of Foot and Mouth Disease. Do not hide cases. You must be the first to
report them to your nearest veterinary clinic or extension officer. If you report early, it will help the province
stop the disease from spreading. This sickness does not move on its own; it is moved by us when we move
animals without care. That means we also have the power to stop it. By reporting quickly and working
together, we can protect our cattle, our villages, and our livelihoods.”

Farmers are strongly encouraged to report any suspicious signs immediately to the nearest veterinary facility
or inform extension officers. By acting quickly and responsibly, communities can help contain the outbreak
and protect the agricultural economy, food security, and rural livelihoods.
The Department assures all communities, whether in high-risk districts or smaller villages, that vaccines will
reach them. As the vaccination campaign gains momentum, the Department is expecting additional
consignments of FMD vaccines in the near future.

These new doses will allow the province to reach even more farmers, expand coverage across all districts,
and strengthen herd immunity to ensure that no community is left behind in the fight against Foot and Mouth
Disease.

###End###

Issued by:
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Communication Services Directorate
For interviews, contact the Departmental Spokesperson: Ms. Emelda Setlhako
Cell 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng- Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has brought renewed hope and
practical support to women in Kabe village situated outside Mahikeng through the donation of essential
agricultural tools. This initiative is set to strengthen household food security, create livelihoods, and restore
dignity within the community.

By equipping women with the means to cultivate their own food, the programme promotes self-reliance
and resilience. It also encourages sustainable farming practices that will benefit future generations. Beyond
food production, these tools open opportunities for income generation and local economic growth.

The handover ceremony, led by MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Madoda Sambatha, was
attended by MEC Susanna Basetsana Dantjie of Social Development, Chair of Chairs Hon. Tebogo Modise
from the Provincial Legislature, the traditional leadership of Kabe, and members of the local community, who
gathered to witness women being equipped to take charge of food production.

One of the beneficiaries, Keabetswe Methikga, expressed deep gratitude for the support received from the
Department. “These tools will truly make a huge difference in our lives. We have always loved working the
land, but the lack of resources often discouraged us. After today, everything feels different. Even the birds
that used to destroy our crops will no longer be a problem, because we now have nets to protect our
gardens. Before this, we struggled to farm with very limited equipment. Some days we had to borrow, and
on other days we couldn’t plant at all. With these tools, we can finally work the land properly, grow
enough food for our families, and even sell produce to support our children, Methikga said.

Addressing the gathering, MEC Sambatha emphasized that the programme forms part of the Department’s
broader work to empower women and build sustainable food systems at the local level. “This intervention is
about more than tools; it is about restoring hope, dignity, and self-reliance. When we support women in
agriculture, we are directly supporting families, fighting poverty, and strengthening food security. These
women are not just beneficiaries; they are producers and partners in the development of our province,” MEC
Sambatha said.

MEC Sambatha added that hunger and poverty expose communities, especially women and children to
numerous social ills. “By supporting food production initiatives such as this one, we are helping to strengthen
the social fabric of our society. We will continue working closely with the Department of Social Development
to ensure that these women receive the necessary support to make their projects sustainable,” MEC
Sambatha concluded.

The traditional leadership welcomed the initiative and pledged their continued support. Speaking on behalf
of the Royal House, Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi said: “As custodians of the land, we are pleased to see the
government working hand in hand with our communities. When our women are empowered to produce food,
the entire village benefits. We commit ourselves to supporting all beneficiaries, encouraging active
participation, and ensuring that these tools are used for their intended purpose.”

The tool donation in Kabe marks another practical step by the provincial government to place women at the
centre of agricultural development, ensuring they are not only recipients of aid but active drivers of food
production, economic participation, and community resilience.

Through rural development and food security programmes, this initiative will be expanded to communities
across all four districts of the province. By equipping women with the tools and skills to cultivate their own
livelihoods, we are fostering self-reliance, reducing dependency, and building resilient households.

Issued by:
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Acting Director: Mr Prince Seokotsa
Email: PSeokotsa@nwpg.gov.za
Cell : 078 456 6352
Facebook :www.facebook.com/nwpread
X : @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng- The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has stepped up efforts to
transform goat farming in the province, launching the Provincial Goat Improvement and Beneficiation
Programme at Koedsberg Farm on Friday, 05 December 2025.
The initiative, rolled out in collaboration with Aphamo Goat Aggregator and key partners, aims to improve
goat genetics, strengthen production systems, and create value-adding opportunities for emerging and
smallholder farmers in the province.

“This programme is truly a game-changer for the goat sector,” said Mr. Andrew Aphane, who will play a
critical role as the Goat Aggregator. “We are extremely excited to partner with DARD and work alongside
reputable institutions like the Agricultural Research Council and North-West University. Together, we will
improve breeding, increase productivity, support value addition, and strengthen the livelihoods of many
farmers, while positioning the North West Province as a leading player in the goat industry,” expressed
Aphane.

Emerging farmer Realeboga Mangwegape is among the first batch of beneficiaries who will receive goats to
improve his herd. “I am delighted to be part of the first group that will receive goats. This support will help
me improve my herd, and I am looking forward to the training and mentorship that will guide me to grow
my farm into a sustainable business,” he said.

Speaking at the launch, MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, highlighted the
programme’s transformative role in reshaping the goat farming sector and boosting rural livelihoods.
“Our responsibility as the Department is to change the status quo in goat farming, formalise the sector, and
increase its commercial value. Goats thrive in our environment and offer strong market opportunities. This
programme will ensure that goat farmers in the province not only participate but lead in the agricultural
economy, positioning the North West Province as a benchmark for goat farming excellence,” said MEC
Sambatha.

The North-West University and the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) will provide technical expertise,
research support, and scientific guidance throughout the programme. Their involvement will ensure that
breeding practices, herd management, and production techniques are informed by the latest research,
helping farmers adopt modern, sustainable, and commercially viable goat farming methods.
Through this scientific backing and strong market linkages, the programme will provide farmers with
improved breeding stock, technical training, advisory services, and access to aggregation platforms. By
enhancing goat production and supporting value chains, the initiative is set to increase farmer incomes,
create employment opportunities, and position the North West livestock sector as a key driver of rural
economic development.

Issued by:
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Departmental Spokesperson: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za