Eastern Cape Pig Farmers Seek Action Over Suspected Swine Fever

Small-scale pig farmers in Ugie, Eastern Cape, South Africa, are raising concerns over the deaths of large numbers of pigs in the area.

Farmers say some pigs have been losing weight, refusing to eat and moving away from their homes before dying.

The situation has prompted some farmers to slaughter pigs before they develop visible symptoms, in an effort to limit possible losses.

Many small-scale farmers in the area depend on pig farming for their livelihoods and are urging the government to act quickly to prevent the suspected disease from spreading further.

Farmer Xolisa Tshongolo says the deaths have affected pigs of different ages, including sows with piglets.

The provincial Agriculture Department has sent veterinary officials and animal health technicians to investigate.

Department spokesperson Atule Joka says samples will be collected and taken to a laboratory to determine the cause of the deaths.

African swine fever is currently suspected because of its high death rate and ability to spread quickly between pigs.

Authorities say laboratory results will be needed to confirm whether African swine fever is responsible for the outbreak.