Left to to Right: Jacques van Heerden (Clover SA: Head, Industrial), Brendan Jacobs (Head for Agribusiness, Business and Commercial Banking, Standard Bank South Africa),
Image: Supplied
Standard Bank has partnered with Clover and the Milk Producers Organisation (MPO) to deploy a specialised chilled mobile vaccination vehicle aimed at strengthening South Africa’s response to Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
The initiative is designed to address one of the most pressing challenges in vaccine distribution—maintaining the cold chain required to preserve vaccine efficacy.
The mobile unit enables safe transportation and delivery of FMD vaccines directly to farming communities, ensuring doses remain at the required temperature throughout their journey.
According to Standard Bank, the partnership supports the Department of Agriculture’s expanded vaccination programme, which began making vaccines available to farmers in February 2026. The national campaign aims to distribute more than 14 million doses by December 2026, targeting over 80% of South Africa’s cattle population.
Liezel Turner, senior manager of strategic alliances and original equipment manufacturers at Business and Commercial Banking (BCB), Standard Bank South Africa, said that the mobile unit strengthens the delivery system underpinning vaccine access.
“FMD vaccines must remain chilled throughout the journey to farmers. By providing a dedicated vehicle that ensures proper cold‑chain delivery, we are helping partners reach farming communities more efficiently and in line with veterinary requirements.”
Brendan Jacobs, head of agribusiness at BCB, Standard Bank South Africa, said that the centrality of coordinated industry support is crucial in protecting the agricultural sector.
“Livestock health underpins the stability of rural economies, food production, and agricultural value chains. The impact of FMD is felt far beyond the farm gate, which is why industry alignment is so important,” Jacobs said.
“By working together with Clover and the MPO, we are contributing to a strengthened coordinated national response that supports farmers with the practical tools they need.”
Jacques van Heerden, executive for industrial at Clover, said that accelerated logistical support is crucial to curb the spread of FMD.
“FMD continues to place pressure on livestock and dairy producers. Working alongside Standard Bank and the MPO allows us to deliver vaccines more rapidly and reliably. The mobile unit significantly enhances our ability to support farmers and meet cold‑chain requirements.”
Fanie Ferreira, CEO of the MPO, welcomed the collaboration as a critical contribution to farmer support.
“Producers have faced substantial challenges due to FMD outbreaks, and the availability and proper distribution of vaccines is essential,” Ferreira said.
“This partnership provides practical assistance to farmers by ensuring vaccines reach them under the correct conditions. Strengthening on‑farm access is a vital part of protecting herds and supporting the sustainability of the dairy sector.”
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