Mbabane – Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak has forced the postponement of cattle action at Ingwavuma Game Reserve organised by Impofu Ranching.
Liz Reilly of Impofu Ranching said the cattle auctioning, which was scheduled for September 13, 2025, has been postponed for about three months amid government’s efforts to control livestock movement.
The spring auction, o, was set to feature 50 high-quality indigenous Boran and Nguni cattle, including bulls, cows, and heifers and generated a strong interest from livestock breeders, buyers, and farmers across the country and beyond.
Reilly said although their herd remains healthy and free of infection, the Ingwavuma Game Reserve has been placed within a veterinary surveillance zone due to its proximity to the affected areas.
Cattle movement permits in the Lubuli area and surrounding communities have been suspended as veterinary authorities assess the spread of the disease.
Reilly said a double cordon fence is constructed over parts of the reserve to protect the cattle and prevent possible contamination from the affected zones. She also extended appreciation to the Veterinary Department, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), and other key players who are working to contain the outbreak.
“Together, we must stand united to restore freedom of cattle movements and trade as soon as possible,” she said.
Within the three months, the containment of the disease will be assessed.
Reilly said Impofu Ranching will provide updates as soon as conditions improve, reaffirming its commitment to conservation, responsible ranching, and maintaining healthy, disease-free herds in Eswatini.
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