South Africa’s  (SA) battle to contain its worst ever Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak is now battled out in court.

Agricultural lobby groups are taking on Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, accusing him of blocking private sector efforts to help curb the spread of the disease.

Sakeliga, the Southern African Agri Initiative and Free State Agriculture want livestock owners and private veterinarians to be allowed to procure and administer foot-and-mouth vaccines.

But Steenhuisen insists this would be unlawful.

Now, Sakeliga Chief Executive Officer Piet le Roux says Steenhuisen refusal has left the farming sector with no option but to seek legal intervention, as pressure mounts to protect the country’s livestock industry and food security.

–SABC–