RMIS Infectious Diseases: 5 Urgent Actions to Save Livestock Now
The RMIS infectious diseases alert issued by Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) CEO Dewald Olivier has sent a critical message to South Africa’s agricultural sector. With outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease, lumpy skin disease, and brucellosis on the rise, the call for improved containment measures is no longer a recommendation — it is an emergency.
This RMIS infectious diseases warning highlights the vulnerability of the livestock industry and the urgent need for coordinated action between farmers, veterinarians, and government agencies to prevent a national crisis.
For more on agricultural health alerts, visit SABC News’ coverage of farming and animal health.
Why RMIS Infectious Diseases Are a National Concern
The Growing Threat to Livestock and Food Security
The RMIS infectious diseases alert comes amid a surge in transboundary animal diseases that threaten not only animal welfare but also food security and export markets. South Africa’s red meat industry, valued at over R100 billion annually, faces severe risks if these diseases spread unchecked.
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), for example, led to a temporary ban on South African beef exports to key markets like China and the EU in 2023. The economic fallout cost the sector an estimated R8.2 billion in lost revenue.
According to a 2024 report by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (*source here*), over 40% of recent disease outbreaks originated from uncontrolled animal movements across provincial borders.
Role of RMIS in Safeguarding the Red Meat Industry
Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) plays a vital role in supporting farmers, ensuring meat quality, and promoting sustainable practices. The RMIS infectious diseases initiative is part of its broader mission to strengthen biosecurity and prevent economic losses.
RMIS is not a regulatory body, but it works closely with the government to provide training, resources, and early warning systems to farmers. Its call for action is a wake-up call for all stakeholders in the livestock value chain.
On our livestock disease prevention hub, we explore how farmers can protect their herds and maintain market access.
Five Urgent Actions to Combat RMIS Infectious Diseases
Action #1: Strengthen On-Farm Biosecurity
The first and most critical step in addressing RMIS infectious diseases is improving biosecurity at the farm level. This includes:
- Installing proper fencing and controlled access points
- Disinfecting vehicles and equipment before entering farms
- Quarantining new or returning animals for at least 21 days
- Limiting visitor access and requiring protective clothing
“Biosecurity is not expensive — it’s essential,” said Dr. Nomsa Mkhize, a veterinary epidemiologist. “One infected animal can destroy an entire herd.”
Action #2: Monitor and Report Disease Symptoms Immediately
Early detection is key to containing RMIS infectious diseases. Farmers must be trained to recognize symptoms such as:
- Fever and lethargy
- Lesions, blisters, or skin nodules
- Reduced milk production or appetite
- Abortion in pregnant animals
Any suspected case must be reported immediately to state veterinarians. Delays in reporting can lead to widespread transmission and costly culling.
Action #3: Control Animal Movement and Trade
Unregulated movement of livestock is a major vector for RMIS infectious diseases. RMIS is urging authorities to enforce stricter movement permits and health certifications.
Electronic identification (EID) systems should be expanded to track animals from farm to slaughter. This would allow rapid tracing during outbreaks and help maintain export certification.
“We need a national animal traceability system,” said CEO Dewald Olivier. “Without it, we’re fighting blind.”
Action #4: Increase Vaccination and Herd Immunity
Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools against infectious diseases. For lumpy skin disease, a targeted vaccination campaign has already proven successful in reducing outbreaks by 60% in vaccinated regions.
The RMIS infectious diseases strategy calls for subsidized vaccine programs, especially for small-scale and communal farmers who often lack access to veterinary services.
According to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (*source here*), herd immunity of 70% or higher is critical to stopping disease transmission.
Action #5: Enhance Farmer Education and Support
Knowledge is power. The RMIS infectious diseases campaign includes a nationwide outreach program to educate farmers on best practices.
Workshops, mobile vet clinics, and SMS alert systems are being rolled out to improve awareness and response times. RMIS is also developing a mobile app for real-time disease reporting and advisory services.
“Farmers are the first line of defense,” said Olivier. “We must empower them with the right tools and information.”
Government and Industry Response
Policy Reforms and Funding Allocation
In response to the RMIS infectious diseases alert, the Department of Agriculture has announced a R1.2 billion emergency fund to support disease control programs.
The funding will be used for:
- Vaccine procurement
- Mobile veterinary units
- Disease surveillance and lab testing
- Compensation for culled animals
While this is a positive step, industry leaders stress that long-term investment in veterinary infrastructure is needed.
International Market Implications
South Africa’s ability to control RMIS infectious diseases directly impacts its standing in global meat markets. Countries like China, the UAE, and the UK require strict health certifications before importing beef and mutton.
A single outbreak can trigger trade bans that take years to lift. Maintaining disease-free zones and international accreditation is crucial for economic survival.
“Our reputation is on the line,” said a meat exporter. “One missed quarantine could cost thousands of jobs.”
Public and Farmer Awareness
Media Campaigns and Community Engagement
SABC and agricultural radio stations have launched public awareness campaigns on the RMIS infectious diseases threat. Daily broadcasts in multiple languages are reaching rural communities with vital prevention tips.
Posters, flyers, and WhatsApp groups are being used to spread information quickly. The message is clear: every farmer has a role to play in protecting the industry.
“We’re not just saving animals — we’re saving livelihoods,” said a community leader in the Eastern Cape.
Building Trust Between Farmers and Authorities
A major challenge in disease control is mistrust. Some farmers fear that reporting sick animals will lead to culling without fair compensation.
The RMIS infectious diseases initiative emphasizes transparency, timely support, and fair compensation to rebuild trust and encourage early reporting.
“We must work together — not in fear,” said a government official. “The future of farming depends on it.”
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Image 1: Veterinarian examining a cow during a disease outbreak
Keywords for image: RMIS infectious diseases, livestock disease, animal health South Africa, vet examining cow
Image 2: Farmer disinfecting equipment at farm entrance
Keywords for image: RMIS infectious diseases, farm biosecurity, animal disease prevention, South African farmer
Source of the article: https://www.sabcnews.com
