South Africa remains dangerously unprepared for another outbreak of avian influenza, according to Francois Baird, chairperson of the FairPlay Movement. 

“We have ample reason to worry. Bird flu is already present in Europe, North America, and even on Marion Island. It’s not a question of if it will return to South Africa, but when.”

‘One of the highest child stunting rates in the world’

Chicken is the most consumed meat in South Africa, with over 66% of consumers relying on it as their primary source of protein. But beyond its economic importance, poultry plays a critical role in addressing malnutrition. 

South Africa has one of the highest child stunting rates in the world, with 28.8% of children under five lacking sufficient animal protein.

“When poultry and eggs don’t reach families with young children, the long-term impact is devastating,” Baird explained. “If we don’t deal with bird flu effectively, we risk making that figure even worse.”

Two key issues emerged during the webinar

• Lack of Compensation: Unlike in Europe where producers are paid for culled birds, South African farmers receive nothing. Government policy technically allows for compensation, but bureaucratic interpretation has rendered this useless. “Because infected birds must be culled, officials argue they have no value – so the payout is zero.”
• Vaccination Roadblocks: While vaccines exist, the current regulations are so complex that they’re practically impossible to implement. South Africa would need 400 poultry vets to meet the requirements – but only has about 70. “This is a case of policy paralysis,” Baird added.

However, there is a glimmer of hope. According to Baird, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has reconvened talks between the government and the industry to develop a more practical and affordable vaccination strategy. 

‘Poorly handled outbreak could impact broader agricultural economy’

“This is encouraging. But leadership now means urgency. Bird flu cost the industry R9.5 billion during the last outbreak in 2023 – we cannot afford to let it happen again,” said Baird.

Beyond poultry farmers, a poorly handled outbreak could impact the broader agricultural economy. Chickens are the country’s biggest consumers of maize and soya, creating knock-on effects for crop farmers – especially in regions like the Free State.

“There are thousands of small-scale poultry farmers, mostly in rural areas. If they can’t be compensated, they’ll hide outbreaks rather than report them. That makes the situation worse,” Baird warned.

FairPlay is urging the government to

• Finalise a practical and implementable vaccination plan.
• Create a workable compensation scheme that encourages reporting and culling.
• Cut through bureaucracy and involve the industry directly in solutions.

“The objective should be to protect the poultry flock, not to enforce impossible rules,” Baird said. “It’s time for pragmatism. The health of children, the future of rural jobs, and our national food security all depend on it.”

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