Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, has committed to ensuring that the working conditions of animal health practitioners are improved in South Africa.

This comes as the country grapples with a critical shortage of professionals in the essential field, which has far-reaching implications for animal health, biosecurity and food security.

Steenhuisen said veterinarians face challenges, including insufficient resources and medicines, inadequate remuneration, and mounting mental health concerns.

He emphasised the gravity of the issues and acknowledged the indispensable role played by veterinarians in safeguarding the country’s agricultural sector.

“Veterinarians are a cornerstone of South Africa’s agricultural success, and without addressing the systemic issues they face, we risk jeopardising not only their well-being but the nation’s food security,” said Steenhuisen.

The Minister also underscored that South Africa must become a place where animal health practitioners can thrive and feel valued.

‘South
Africa currently has 4000 registered veterinarians, far below the international benchmark which is between 200 and 400 veterinarians per million people. At least a hundred veterinarians emigrate annually in search of better opportunities abroad,’ the Minister said.

In his efforts to ensure comprehensive input from all relevant parties, Steenhuisen is expected to meet with nine provincial agriculture MECs, including senior officials from the department, the South African Veterinary Association, and key industry experts to address the concerns and avert a potential crisis in the profession and the agricultural sector.

Source: South African Government News Agency