Vetnews | November 2025 2 « BACK TO CONTENTS As we approach the close of 2025, November offers an important opportunity for reflection, to recognise how far we have come as a profession, and to reaffirm our shared purpose in advancing animal health, food safety, and public trust in our profession. This is especially important after the last few months. The results of the poll on the constitution of the SAVC are contained in this issue. I thank all colleagues who took the time to participate in the poll on the transport of animals destined for slaughter by sea. It was clear from the results that SAVA members overwhelmingly believed dialogue between the parties was necessary to resolve the issue – A sentiment I believe was also echoed by the judge at the recent court hearing. The judgment affirming the proper constitution and functioning of the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) marks a crucial step toward institutional stability and good governance. We trust that the Council will now be constituted in accordance with the court order, thereby restoring the full legitimacy and functionality of the South African Veterinary Council. We look forward to the Council resuming its vital regulatory and governance duties. This outcome re-centres the principles of accountability, transparency, and inclusivity that underpin both our regulatory and representative institutions. I believe that the new councillors will build on the foundations laid in creating an inclusive sector united in purpose. I also trust that the divisive elements within the profession will subside and allow us to collectively focus on the things that matter — the advancement of veterinary science, the welfare of animals, and the service we provide to society. Across the country, veterinarians continue to demonstrate resilience and professionalism in the face of major disease and publichealth challenges. The ongoing Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) control efforts in Gauteng and other provinces reflect the need for veterinarians to continue to act ethically and professionally in the interest of the country. This and collaboration in good faith between State Veterinarians, Animal Health Technicians, private practitioners, and producers remains our strongest defence against transboundary animal diseases. As we look ahead, the implementation of the Animal Health Act is looming, as indicated by the National Department of Agriculture earlier this month. This act will replace the Animal Diseases Act, and it is thus important for SAVA members to comment on the regulations and the Act as the opportunity arises. This process will likely usher in a new era for animal-health governance in South Africa, reshaping responsibilities for provincial veterinary services, veterinary and paraveterinary professionals, producers, and regulators alike. SAVA will continue to engage constructively with the National Department of Agriculture and other partners to ensure that the new regulatory framework supports effective disease control, fair compliance expectations, and the sustainability of veterinary services. In the past month, we attended the much-awaited WVA Vet-VPP Collaboration Workshop. This workshop was sponsored by the WVA in response to concerns raised by veterinarians in the countries where an FAO initiative to empower Veterinary Para Professionals (VPPs) - Animal Health Technicians, in the case of South Africa - to open sustainable independent practices. At the workshop, it became clear that more effort needs to be put into collaboration with Para-veterinary professions in building the veterinary team and strengthening our One Health approach. The journey ahead calls for renewed commitment, open communication, and partnership. At the workshop, SAVA, with representatives from the NVCG and RuVASA, represented the veterinarians, and the Animal Health Technicians were represented by SAAHT. Both parties agreed to get a mandate from their respective associations and formalise collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SAAAHT and other professional associations. Possible areas of collaboration identified are: • Championing One Health and One Veterinary Team principles as the foundation of all professional activities and partnerships. • Promoting joint training, research, and advocacy platforms to strengthen technical depth and responsiveness in the field. • Advocating for sustainable veterinary service delivery that supports both animal health and livelihoods. As I noted in my presentation at this workshop, which rings true with every relationship SAVA has, relationships are built — and sustained — by the people and institutions that nurture them. As we move forward, let us continue to work together with purpose, humility, and integrity, building a profession that serves not only animals and farmers but also the public and the generations to come. Lastly, we look forward to the SAVA AGM on 22 November 2025. Members are encouraged to participate and have their voices heard. I hope to see an unprecedented turnout this year. I trust that members have had a fruitful year, and as we approach the close of 2025, may we all find renewed purpose and pride in the vital role we play in society. v Groetnis! Ziyanda From the President Dear members, Almost at the end!
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