The Western Cape minister of agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, took the stage at the 39th World Veterinary Association Congress, addressing a diverse gathering of 1 500 delegates from 48 countries. Amidst discussions on global veterinary practices, he highlighted the pivotal role of Western Cape state veterinarians in elevating the province’s agricultural exports.
“Western Cape state veterinarians are at the forefront of our province’s endeavours to amplify agricultural exports,” stated Meyer, emphasising the region’s significant contribution, responsible for 55% of South Africa’s primary agricultural exports, with nearly half comprising livestock or related products.
New system to streamline processes
Meyer unveiled the Western Cape department of agriculture’s veterinary services’ latest innovation, the online Export Certificate Office System (ECOS). This pioneering platform offers customers a 24-hour export facilitation service, slashing export certificate processing times from days to mere minutes.
“ECOS not only streamlines the export process but also ensures adherence to international standards,” noted Meyer, stressing the potential job creation impact with a 5% increase in exports potentially generating 22 000 new jobs in the Western Cape’s agricultural sector.
Amidst other developments, Meyer announced the completion of the Western Cape government’s R30 million revamp of provincial veterinary laboratory facilities, which received accreditation from the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) and ISO 17025 certification, symbolising a leap forward in quality assurance.
Expressing concern over the shortage of veterinarians, Meyer underscored the critical role of a fully staffed veterinary service in ensuring food security and public health. “South Africa’s current ratio of veterinarians per million falls significantly below international norms, posing risks to our agricultural sector and human welfare,” he remarked.
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Focus on animal welfare and biosecurity
Touching upon pressing issues such as live animal transportation conditions at sea, Meyer urged a re-evaluation, advocating for animal welfare and biosecurity measures.
“This year, our focus is on strengthening veterinary services and biosecurity efforts,” declared Meyer, highlighting partnerships with global organisations like the World Veterinary Association and the South African Veterinary Association (Sava) in advancing these objectives.
In concluding remarks, Meyer reiterated the imperative of safeguarding animal welfare and fortifying biosecurity measures, rallying support from veterinary associations to confront the challenges facing the profession and agricultural sector alike.
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