Johannesburg: The Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has described the arrival of the first batch of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines as a victory for the country's agricultural sector and a major step towards reopening global red meat markets. Steenhuisen officially received the first shipment of one million high-potency FMD vaccine doses at OR Tambo International Airport on Saturday. According to South African Government News Agency, Steenhuisen emphasized that this development is a significant achievement for South Africa, which aims to bolster the agricultural sector's economic impact. He noted that agricultural exports had increased by 7% quarter-on-quarter and 10% year-on-year, highlighting the sector's vital role in economic growth and job creation. The vaccines, sourced from Argentine pharmaceutical company Biogénesis Bagó, are seen as a critical tool in South Africa's fight against recurring FMD outbreaks. These outbreaks have severely affected the red meat industry and led to the closur e of key export markets. For years, South Africa has struggled with these outbreaks, which have restricted exports and placed strain on farmers. The Minister stated that the new vaccines would allow the country to move from reacting to outbreaks to proactively managing and ultimately eradicating the disease. The shipment forms part of the Department of Agriculture's new 10-Year Eradication Strategy aimed at securing 'FMD-free status with vaccination,' a critical requirement for regaining access to lucrative global markets. The one million doses received mark the first phase of a broader rollout, with an additional five million doses expected to arrive in March. South Africa has a national herd of over 14 million cattle, and the government aims to vaccinate at least 80% by December. Steenhuisen expressed gratitude to the Argentinian government and industry partners for their support in reaching what he described as a milestone moment, highlighting collaboration between the state and private sector. Steenhui sen also acknowledged the work of Department of Agriculture officials, including Director-General Mooketsa Ramasodi and senior veterinary and biosecurity experts, Dr Emily Mogajane and Dr Botlhe Modisane, for their scientific and technical contributions. Addressing farmers directly, the Minister reassured them that help is on the way and expressed confidence that the vaccination program will not only help curb the current outbreak but firmly place the country on a new trajectory for the red meat sector.