In a statement dated 21 July 2014, State Vet Dr Gary Bührmann confirmed that the Department of Agriculture has lifted the movement ban on direct horse movements from Gauteng and KZN into the African Horse Sickness controlled area.
As the last confirmed case of AHS occurred at least 30 days ago in both provinces, the risk is thus considered low enough to allow direct movements again from the infected zone countrywide to the AHS controlled area, subject to compliance with the usual AHS movement requirements.
Coming on the eve of the breeding season, the announcement will be welcomed by all in the racing and breeding community.
Dr Bührmann added “Thank you all very much for your assistance in the implementation of this often arduous and difficult protocol. Your commitment to helping keep the Western Cape free of AHS and in so doing facilitate horse exports from South Africa is very much appreciated.”
(source: Elsenburg)