Cape Town – Disgruntled Mfuleni pig farmers are calling on the government to intervene following an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak in the area.
Certain parts of Mfuleni are under quarantine as a result, with farmers not allowed to move their pigs.
Farmer Babalwa Boyce said the past two weeks have been hard, as every morning they had woken up to dead pigs.
“We would really appreciate some assistance because after the fever was announced, business took a hard knock as we lost customers.
“It was also announced that it has no effect on human beings but that doesn’t change the situation that we have found ourselves in, customers don’t want to buy and we would appreciate some intervention,” said Boyce.
She said that having to bury dead pigs due to the fever was heartbreaking as it meant they were throwing away their livelihood.
Provincial veterinary services head Gininda Msiza said that ASF is still confined to a small area in Mfuleni.
“The affected area is currently under quarantine. No animals can be moved out of that quarantined area. Currently no restrictions are applicable to the rest of the province other than Mfuleni. Pigs can be transported, but biosecurity measures must be implemented at all times.
“African swine fever does not affect humans and thus it’s safe to consume pork,” he aid.
Farmers have been requested to be vigilant and to report any sudden illnesses and deaths of their pigs to the local state veterinary office immediately so that swift action can be taken to prevent the spread of the disease.
Emma Corder, who supplies cleaning equipment to the agricultural sector, said: “Strict biosecurity and farm management protocols could help minimise the spread of the disease and can enhance the health and productivity of pigs.
“To avoid cross-contamination, all farm staff and visitors’ hands and boots should be disinfected regularly before entering the piggery.”
Cape Times