South Africa is currently experiencing a sharp decline in beef exports due to the combined impact of foot-and-mouth disease and a severe drought. As of February 12, 2026, these challenges have placed significant strain on the nation’s meat industry, resulting in a reduced supply for international markets and negatively affecting farmer incomes.
The outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease has led to stringent restrictions on livestock movement, further complicating efforts to export beef. At the same time, the ongoing drought is depleting water supplies and limiting feed availability, making cattle rearing increasingly difficult. This crisis is particularly striking given South Africa’s position as one of Africa’s leading beef exporters, highlighting vulnerabilities in agricultural resilience.
The government along with industry stakeholders are actively engaged in managing the spread of the disease and implementing measures to alleviate the effects of drought. Their goal is to stabilize beef production and support farmers during this difficult period.
In a related note, Ghana’s cocoa farmers are also facing challenges, with tens of thousands of tons of cocoa beans unsold at ports. This situation has left many growers unpaid and struggling financially.
These setbacks in agriculture not only threaten individual livelihoods but also underscore the necessity for
- stronger support systems for farmers
- enhanced coordination among governments and international partners
- comprehensive responses to address environmental and market pressures
The combined effects of disease, drought, and market difficulties highlight the critical importance of collaborative efforts to sustain Africa’s agricultural sectors.
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