The Minister held an urgent meeting with the Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) Board on Friday morning, September 4, 2026. The discussions centered on allegations of serious misconduct regarding vaccine pricing. Following this meeting, the OBP Board announced the suspension of its CEO, Dr Jacob Modumo, pending further investigation into the claims. The article was issued by Desiree van der Walt MP, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Spokesperson on Agriculture, and was published on September 6, 2026.
Urgent Action on Pricing Allegations
Minister Aucamp’s intervention in response to allegations of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine markups was commended by Desiree van der Walt MP, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Spokesperson on Agriculture. Van der Walt stated, "Minister Aucamp’s swift intervention in response to serious allegations of the markup of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines should be commended." She added that South African farmers, currently facing one of the country's worst FMD outbreaks, "cannot afford to be burdened by potentially exorbitant vaccine markups." The Minister has reportedly made it clear that Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) must not unjustly profit from the FMD tragedy. Dr Jacob Modumo, the suspended CEO, has been granted five days to provide reasons against his suspension. Van der Walt emphasized that the Minister's intervention should be welcomed, and the concerns raised should be quickly examined and resolved by the OBP Board. She further noted the critical role of OBP as a state-owned entity, showing the necessity for it to operate with the highest levels of integrity and transparency, especially when providing essential services to the agricultural sector.
Farmers Face FMD Crisis
South African farmers are currently grappling with one of the country's most severe Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks. During this critical period, farmers face significant challenges and cannot afford to be burdened by potentially exorbitant vaccine markups, according to reports. The Minister and the Department of Agriculture bear a clear responsibility to protect and support South Africa’s farming communities during this period as they navigate the ongoing FMD crisis. This situation shows the need for transparency and fair pricing in the supply of essential veterinary medicines. The economic impact of FMD outbreaks can be devastating for farmers, leading to livestock losses, trade restrictions, and reduced income. Ensuring access to affordable and effective vaccines is therefore critical to mitigating these impacts and supporting the recovery of the agricultural sector. The ongoing crisis demands a coordinated and ethical response from all stakeholders, particularly those involved in the supply chain of critical veterinary products.
Call for Swift Resolution
Minister Willie Aucamp has reiterated that Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) must not unjustly profit from the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) crisis affecting the nation. His statement emphasizes the need for ethical conduct during a period when South African farmers are already facing significant challenges. The Minister's directive shows the government's concern over potential exploitation amidst a widespread animal health emergency. This stance reinforces the principle that public entities, especially those with a monopoly or significant market power in essential services, must prioritize public welfare over excessive financial gain.
Minister Aucamp explicitly stated that the financial burdens on South African farmers should not be increased, particularly during the current FMD outbreak. This position notes a commitment to protecting agricultural producers from additional economic strain. The Minister's remarks align with broader efforts to ensure stability and support within the agricultural sector as it contends with one of the most severe FMD outbreaks in the country's history. The call for restraint in pricing reflects an understanding of the precarious financial situation many farmers face. The ongoing investigation into OBP's vaccine pricing is expected to bring clarity and accountability, ensuring that farmers receive fair treatment during this challenging time.
