The Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife says the ongoing spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease is continuing to disrupt conservation operations at several reserves in KwaZulu-Natal, affecting key programmes such as game sales and community support initiatives.
Biodiversity Conservation Manager at Ezemvelo, Vuyisile Radebe, says the organisation is concerned about the potential impact of the disease on wildlife management and its ability to assist nearby communities.
Radebe explained that earlier this year there were fears that the disease might have spread to the Drakensberg, possibly infecting the eland population. Tests were conducted, and the results fortunately came back negative.
However, she says the threat of further spread remains a concern.
“We are also worried about not being able to meet the needs of surrounding communities,” Radebe said. “Part of our relationship with traditional authorities has been providing meat during culling operations. The protein has been important for communities, and animals are usually sold at about R30 per kilogram.”
Ezemvelo officials discussed the situation during a media tour at the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park this week.
Radebe rejected claims that the outbreak originated from wild animals within protected areas. Instead, she said the organisation is working on several measures to prevent the disease from spreading between livestock and wildlife.
These include strengthening fencing along reserve boundaries to reduce direct contact between animals. Ezemvelo is also planning to introduce vehicle spraying systems similar to those used at border posts, aimed at disinfecting vehicles entering certain areas.
The agency is seeking external funding to support plans for additional fencing, including double-strand barriers designed to limit contact between wildlife and livestock.
According to Radebe, the disease can spread through close contact between animals, particularly through nose-to-nose interaction between cattle and buffalo.
Meanwhile, Ezemvelo has again warned communities living near the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park about the dangers of cutting boundary fences around the reserve.
Approximately 10 metres of fencing near the Okhukhu Gate was recently cut, with seven support poles stolen.
Ezemvelo spokesperson Musa Mntambo said the incident is not isolated, adding that the agency has long struggled with vandalism, theft and illegal hunting in the area.
He confirmed that a criminal case has been opened as authorities continue efforts to curb crime affecting the reserve.