The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has reported a significant increase in confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) within the province, with numbers climbing from 158 to 179 as of March 6, 2026. The alert was issued to local communities, farmers, and stakeholders, highlighting the ongoing threat that this disease poses to the livestock sector, which is vital for the regional economy.

Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality is the most affected area, recording 58 cases of FMD, while Bojanala Platinum District follows closely with 53 cases. Other impacted districts include Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District with 35 and Ngaka Modiri Molema District with 33 cases. The provincial department's warning emphasizes the urgent need for concerted action from the government, farmers, and communities to combat the disease effectively.

The rise in FMD cases reflects a critical health crisis affecting livestock, underscoring the need for united efforts to protect the industry. The livestock sector is crucial not only for local economies but also for food security across the region. Stakeholders are urged to collaborate to mitigate the spread of the disease, ensuring the sustainability of farming businesses and safeguarding the livelihoods that depend on them.