As of mid-February 2026, the South African agricultural sector is demonstrating extraordinary resilience in the face of a National State of Disaster. Following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s formal declaration on 13 February 2026, the industry has shifted its focus from crisis management to a “biosecurity-first” exhibition model.
While the virus has now touched eight provinces, the most significant shift has been in the Western Cape. Cases in Mbekweni (Drakenstein/Wellington) and a recent dairy farm outbreak in Hartenbos (Mossel Bay) have seen the provincial government allocate R100 million for vaccines and 24/7 border controls. This heightened risk has led to landmark decisions for the country’s most iconic agricultural gatherings.
NAMPO Harvest Day (12–15 May 2026)
c and the NAMPO management have officially confirmed that no cloven-hoofed animals (cattle, sheep, goats, or pigs) will be permitted at NAMPO Park this year. The decision was taken unanimously after a deep risk assessment showed the virus moving closer to central production areas.
A New Experience: Instead of physical pens, breeders are pivoting to high-tech displays, using data and digital marketing to showcase genetic performance.
Permitted Sections: Animals that do not carry FMD—including horses, dogs, and poultry—will still be exhibited under strict sanitization protocols.
Educational Focus: The event will serve as a national classroom for biosecurity, teaching producers how to implement the 21-point recovery plan on their own farms.
Bloem Show (23 April – 2 May 2026)
The Bloem Show remains a beacon of the central Free State, though it has suspended all cattle and small-stock competitions for 2026.
What’s On: The National Saddle Horse Show remains the crown jewel of the event. Visitors can still enjoy the full funfair, commercial exhibitions, and the vibrant “Beach Party” theme.
Economic Impact: While the livestock suspension is a blow to stud breeders, CEO Elmarie Prinsloo emphasized that the move is a “responsible sacrifice” to protect the long-term integrity of the national herd.
Royal Agricultural Show (29 May – 3 June 2026)
Marking its 175th anniversary at its new home in Howick, the “Royal” is currently maintaining a restricted livestock schedule. While organizers are still planning for traditional poultry and honey sections, all cloven-hoofed entries are under constant review. Organizers are exploring “slaughter classes” as a lower-risk alternative, ensuring animals move directly to approved abattoirs rather than returning to farms.
The Auction and Tour Circuit
The commitment to biosecurity has caused a strategic pause across the country:
Postponed Auctions: The National Boran Auction (originally 13 Feb) and the National Bonsmara Auction (originally 17 March) have been suspended to prevent inter-provincial animal movement.
Breeders’ Tours: The Beefmaster Cattle Breeders’ Society has moved its annual tour to 2027, prioritizing the safety of its participants and the host farms.
Why the Caution is Necessary
Minister John Steenhuisen’s newly formed Industry Coordination Council (ICC) has successfully restarted local vaccine production at Onderstepoort, but until the national herd is stabilized, the “show must go on”—just without the cloven hooves.
By choosing innovation over tradition in 2026, South Africa is ensuring that its world-class genetics survive to see the 2027 season and beyond.