Farmers in the ||Kharas Region have described the outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) at a farm near Karasburg as 'unexpected and concerning'. 

Farmers Reginald Swartz and Lelanie Losper were, however, optimistic that the region will soon retain its FMD-free zone, which it has maintained for generations.  

"It is a major setback for the country's economy and greatly disappointing for many farmers. The outbreak caught us off guard; we did not expect it. Although measures are in place to contain and combat the disease, its emergence has an impact on the farming sector, which is disappointing." 

"To be honest, it came as a shock. Nobody expected it, and nobody wants it. For myself, it has yet to sink in for me. However, I am very positive that the Directorate of Veterinary Services will contain the further spread from where it was detected. Fortunately our veterinary system is on the ball; thus, I am confident we will find a solution. At the end of the day, we have to leave it in God's hand. At times things happen that you did not expect. But as farmers we must remain positive."

The farmers further described the emergence of FMD as poorly timed, saying several auctions had to be cancelled following the announcement of the outbreak.

This, they said, could result in financial pressure on farmers without financial reserves. 

FMD disease is a severe, highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals like cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. 

It does not affect humans.