Standard Bank has partnered with Clover and the Milk Producers’ Organisation (MPO) to support South African government efforts to curb the spread of Foot‑and‑Mouth Disease (FMD) through the deployment of a chilled mobile vaccination vehicle. The specialised unit enables safe, cold‑chain distribution of vaccines directly to farming communities, addressing a critical logistical need in the national response.
This partnership supports the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development’s (DALRRD) expanded vaccine programme, which made FMD vaccines available to farmers from February 2026 and aims to distribute 14 million doses by December 2026. Clover confirms that the initial 200,000‑dose allocation has been prioritised for KwaZulu‑Natal, with national rollout to follow.
Liezel Turner, Senior Manager of Strategic Alliances and Original Equipment Manufactures at Business and Commercial Banking (BCB), Standard Bank South Africa, says the mobile unit strengthens the delivery system underpinning vaccine access. “FMD vaccines must remain chilled throughout the journey to farmers. By providing a dedicated vehicle that ensures proper cold‑chain delivery, we are helping partners reach farming communities more efficiently and in line with veterinary requirements.”
Brendan Jacobs, Head of Agribusiness at BCB, Standard Bank South Africa, emphasises the centrality of coordinated industry support in protecting the agricultural sector. “Livestock health underpins the stability of rural economies, food production and agricultural value chains. The impact of FMD is felt far beyond the farm gate, which is why industry alignment is so important. By working together with Clover and the MPO, we are contributing to a strengthened coordinated national response that supports farmers with the practical tools they need.”
Representing Clover, Jacques van Heerden, the Executive for Industrial, highlights the importance of accelerated logistical support, adding that. “FMD continues to place pressure on livestock and dairy producers. Working alongside Standard Bank and the MPO allows us to deliver vaccines more rapidly and reliably. The mobile unit significantly enhances our ability to support farmers and meet cold‑chain requirements.”
Fanie Ferreira, CEO of the Milk Producers’ Organisation (MPO), welcomed the collaboration as a critical contribution to farmer support. “Producers have faced substantial challenges due to FMD outbreaks and the availability and proper distribution of vaccines is essential. This partnership provides practical assistance to farmers by ensuring vaccines reach them under the correct conditions. Strengthening on‑farm access is a vital part of protecting herds and supporting the sustainability of the dairy sector.”
Government’s ongoing interventions to combat FMD
DALRRD’s measures, as shared through Clover’s responses to Standard Bank, include:
- Rolling out vaccines to farmers under an expanded national support programme
- Prioritising high‑risk provinces
- Facilitating access for both commercial and emerging farmers
- Collaborating with industry to strengthen cold‑chain systems
- Targeting more than 14 million cattle, representing over 80% of the national herd
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