The outbreak of African Swine Fever in Bredasdorp last week has already led to the deaths of many pigs and poses a serious threat to farming livelihoods across the Overberg, including the Overstrand area.
Efforts are now focused on containing the disease and preventing further spread during the week of 12–16 August 2025.
While ASF poses no threat to human health, it is highly contagious among pigs and can be devastating to farming operations.
The Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Caledon office is urging the public and local farmers to remain alert and take all necessary precautions. One of the most effective ways to control the spread is through community awareness and by stopping the movement of pigs in the Overstrand.
As such, all pig farmers and residents are strongly advised not to buy pigs from outside the Overstrand area. Even local pig farmers are currently restricted to buy/sell across district boundaries.
The following groups are especially encouraged to take note and follow the guidelines:
- Pig farmers in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Stanford and Gansbaai
- Pork sellers and Chisanyama operators along Swartdam Road in Hermanus (hawkers’ area)
- Their customers and the wider community
A series of community outreach sessions will be held to raise awareness and share important information with residents.
The outreach sessions are scheduled as follows:
- GANSBAAI: 13 August 2025 at 17:00 at Masakhane Taxi Rank
- STANFORD: 13 August 2025 at 18:00 at Die Kop Pig Farmers’ Stalls
- ZWELIHLE: 14 August 2025 at 17:00 at Zwelihle Taxi Rank
- HERMANUS: 14 August 2025 at 18:00 in Swartdam Road (Hawkers’ area)
For more information, contact Hezekile Xovula, Agricultural Advisor in Caledon from the Western Cape Department of Agriculture at 028 425 4848 or Hezekile.Xovula@westerncape.gov.za
Please help by sharing this information calmly and responsibly. Avoid buying pigs from outside the Overstrand Municipal jurisdiction and report any signs of illness in pigs to local authorities or your veterinarian.
