ISUZU Motors South Africa used its presence at NAMPO 2026 to highlight the impact of the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak on South Africa’s farming community through its Farmer Solidarity Campaign. Launched at the premier agricultural expo, the campaign runs until 30 May 2026 and centers on the Farmer Stories Fund, a relief initiative that will provide R250,000 in practical support packages to selected farmers affected by the outbreak.
The agricultural sector continues to feel the heavy effects of the outbreak, with 1,317 FMD cases recorded nationally as of April 2026. While more than 2.03 million animals have been vaccinated since February 2026—with no new breakthroughs reported in vaccinated herds—the daily operational and financial strain on farming families remains severe.
Recognizing that the crisis extends far beyond simple economics, ISUZU’s campaign places farmers and their experiences directly at the centre of the conversation.
“For many farmers, this outbreak is not just an agricultural issue. It is a daily operational and emotional challenge that affects families, businesses and rural communities,” said Mpho Nkhumeleni, Department Executive: CV Sales, Revenue Generation at ISUZU Motors South Africa. “As a brand with deep roots in the agricultural sector, we believe it is important to show support in a way that is practical, respectful and meaningful.”
How to Apply: Sharing Stories for Substantial Relief
To access this support, farmers are invited to submit personal stories detailing how the outbreak has affected their livelihoods and operations, and explaining how practical assistance could help them during this difficult period. Entries can be submitted quickly and easily through a dedicated WhatsApp line or via QR codes available through the campaign platform.
The comprehensive campaign features a total fund allocation of R250,000 in practical support, highlighted by three main operational relief awards valued at R50,000 each. To further alleviate on-farm financial pressures, the initiative also provides critical aftersales service packages and practical spot prizes aimed at easing operational pressure on farms.
Driving Resilience in Agriculture
The initiative forms part of ISUZU’s ongoing commitment to supporting industries and communities that rely on dependable mobility and operational continuity every day. As one of South Africa’s leading commercial vehicle brands, renowned for durability and reliability since entering the market in 1964, ISUZU aims to use its platform to foster broader public solidarity. Selected farmer stories will continue to be shared across ISUZU’s digital platforms and agricultural media partnerships as the campaign progresses.
“Farmers play a critical role in keeping South Africa moving, often under extremely challenging conditions,” added Nkhumeleni. “Through this campaign, we want to encourage South Africans to listen to these stories, stand with farming communities and recognise the resilience that exists within the sector.”
With entries closing on 30 May 2026, affected producers are strongly encouraged to submit their stories before the deadline. For more information on the initiative or ISUZU products, visit www.isuzu.co.za.