Jodie Kroone doesn’t need much convincing to swim the aQuellé Midmar Mile. She’s done it before, she loves being in the water, and in her words, she “couldn't think of a reason not to participate” again in 2026.

The 31-year-old first swam Midmar in 2023, six years after a car accident left her with a spinal cord injury and paralysis. The early stages of recovery from her 2017 accident were challenging, as she adjusted to new ways of moving and regaining independence.

“I liked having goals and ticking them off as I got stronger,” she explained. “Once my list was somewhat complete, I began looking for new ways to challenge myself as well as stay active.” That led Kroone to some other local swims, and ultimately to the 2023 aQuellé Midmar.

“From the beginning of my injury, I never wanted to be seen as a victim. Trying new things and exploring what works for me is motivation to keep going. There are so many amazing people who want to help and introduce you to sports/adventures/hobbies.

“I always try to say yes to opportunities and keep an open mind. Through this mindset I’ve seen the world is bigger than just me sitting in my wheelchair. I can also share how disability is not scary and hopefully help shift others’ perceptions.”

Sport has played a major role in that outlook. Alongside swimming, Kroone found unexpected strength through para-surfing after being introduced to the sport by the Made 4 More Foundation. The opportunity led her to success in competition, including winning the KZN championships in 2021.

Swimming, however, holds a special place in her heart. Kroone vividly remembers her first open-water race, where she chose to compete in the able-bodied field.

“[It was] so freeing. I love being in the water,” she said, adding that completing the race and keeping pace with able-bodied swimmers cemented her commitment to making swimming a regular challenge.

Training for and competing at an event like the aQuellé Midmar Mile comes with a few logistical challenges, however. Kroone relies on support from friends and family to get in and out of the water, using an old wheelchair at the start and finish. In the water, she has adapted her technique, swimming on her back using a sculling motion that allows her to breathe comfortably.

For the recently engaged Kroone, sport is about far more than competition. “Sport has given me confidence and kept me physically motivated,” she explained, highlighting how surfing and swimming were goals for her even before her accident, making it especially meaningful that she continues to pursue them.

As she lines up for the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile, Kroone hopes her participation will encourage others to explore the water, regardless of ability or circumstances.

“I think it just encourages others to give swimming a try. It doesn't have to be the Midmar Mile, but getting in the water can be a form of therapy for sure!”

Online entries for the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile, which takes place from 5-8 February, have now closed. Those still wishing to enter can do so at the dam on the day but are encouraged to arrive as early as possible. For more information, head to www.midmarmile.com

Photo credit: Action Pics SA

The Power of Soccer: More Teams, More Talent, More Impact!

Last season, Angels Care proudly returned to the pitch to sponsor and run the junior soccer league across uMngeni—and what a season it was! With 57 teams competing across two streams, the talent and grit we saw from our youth were truly inspiring.

A massive congratulations to our 2025 Stream Champions:
U13: Dallas FC (Stream A) & Giant Killers from Lidgetton (Stream B)
U15: Dallas FC (Stream A) & African Angels (Stream B)
U17: Young Tigers from Mpophomeni (Stream A) & Giant Killers from Lidgetton (Stream B)

Looking Ahead:
The 2026 Season is making history! We are thrilled to announce that the league has grown to 78 teams this year. Most excitingly, we have officially launched our Girls Soccer League, with 8 pioneering teams taking to the field alongside our 70 boys' teams!

This expansion is about much more than just a game. In a time when our youth face the constant pressure of drug abuse and negative influences, this league serves as a vital shield. By providing a structured, competitive, and supportive environment for nearly 80 teams, we are keeping our youngsters busy, focused, and healthy.

From Mpophomeni and Hhaza to Howick West, Lidgetton, and Lions River - we are using the power of sport to build a safer, stronger uMngeni.

Thank you to the coaches and community members for helping us champion our youth and give them a reason to play for their future. A huge shout out to the Angels Care coach Desmond, whose determination and passion is unmatched.

Please contact us if you are able to sponsor/support this programme as it continue to touch more lives.

What inspired you to become a real estate agent?

I have always had a strong interest in property, and before selling my restaurant at Howick Falls, I registered as a real estate agent. Growing up in the Midlands allowed me to build strong relationships with local people and farmers throughout the area.

How long have you been a real estate agent?

Since 2008.

What locations or regions do your property listings cover?

All of the KZN Midlands, but mostly Howick and its outlying areas.

What specific property market do you specialise in, and what drew you to this particular type of real estate?

I specialise in the residential rental market, as well as commercial leasing. At the outset of my estate agency career, I visited farmers who were interested in selling, and I was often asked if I could find a tenant for a cottage on their farm. That is how I began working in the rental side of real estate.

Which type of property do you most enjoy listing—lifestyle, freestanding homes, complexes, anything residential —and why?

I enjoy listing all types of rental properties, particularly those that are already well maintained and presented. Properties that require some improvement also present a rewarding challenge, as I enjoy helping owners prepare them for the rental market.

What makes your service stand out from other agents?

With many years of experience in the rental market, I stay up to date with constantly changing regulations. I focus on building strong relationships with both landlords and tenants, ensuring landlords have a reliable and trustworthy agent to care for their property, while tenants can be confident that their rental home will be well maintained.

For those looking to get in touch, what is the most efficient way to reach you? Also, are you available for urgent messages during evenings and weekends?

The best way to contact me is via cellphone. If I am unable to answer right away due to being with a client, a WhatsApp message is preferred. I am available on weekends for calls or WhatsApp messages, although I do not take calls after 6:00 pm on weekends. WhatsApp messages are always welcome.

Let’s find the perfect rental solution for you. I specialize in aligning the interests of owners and tenants to create lasting value. With years of top-tier expertise, I am happy to assist with any real estate inquiries you may have. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Contact Pippa Griffin:

Mobile & WhatsApp: 083 467 8140

Sincere appreciation to our sponsors J Leslie Smith and Co and Oakleigh Funeral Home for sponsoring the prizes for UWBC’s first competition for 2026.

The weather was perfect for bowling for , with a good turnout. Thank you to ALL participants which includes those from our local bowling clubs.

Congratulations to our winners : Ed and Alan (Top image)
Second Prize : Margie and Graham (Second image)
Third Prize : Steph and Sharon
Plate Prize : Fred and Mike

We welcome new players to UWBC. “Tabs in “ times are Tuesday mornings 8 for 8:30 Wednesday afternoons 1 for 1:30 and Saturdays 1: for 1:30.

Forthcoming Sponsored event:
REDCLIFFE FARMING SPONSOR
Please save the date - 17 February 2026.

Contact Ann for further information at 071 676 5591

Today marks the official start of our academic year, and it feels especially fitting and we are delighted to share a special message from Win de Wet, who is serving as Acting Rector until our new Rector, Bart Wielenga, arrives at Michaelhouse in July.

Win has been an integral part of Michaelhouse since 2002, most recently as Deputy Rector Academics, and now steps into this role with deep knowledge of Michaelhouse and its traditions.
Her appointment marks a historic moment as Michaelhouse’s first female rector, supported by a strong leadership and staff team. While we don’t make too much of titles, we do celebrate the dedication, experience, and steady guidance that will carry our boys forward in the months ahead.

Win de Wet's message on YouTube

INSTALLATION DAY

Our client, based in Howick contacted HPS Solar for assistance with his constant grid failures and high electricity bills.

We completed a consumption assessment and proposed a customised solution for his home.

Needless to say, our client no longer has grid interruption or high electricity bills. Proud to convert another client to a greener, self-sustainable life.

Happy client - happy team HPS Solar

Contact us if you are ready to go green and live a life with no interruptions and high electricity bills.

Construction of the 22-hectare Serenity Gardens, which includes a world-record labyrinth and a series of immersive garden experiences, is well underway and set to redefine the Midlands landscape. Alongside this landmark project, Brahman Hills is also launching the next phase in its journey of refinement and elevation: the introduction of 5-star Premium Signature Villas.

Four of the estate’s most cherished villas — Oribi , Duiker, Eland and Wildebeest – are currently undergoing comprehensive refurbishments. Each is being carefully reimagined to reflect a higher standard of luxury, intimacy, and personalised care, while remaining deeply connected to the natural environment that defines Brahman Hills. According to Orrin Cottle, CEO of Brahman Hills, the project is a natural extension of the property’s long-term vision to deliver world-class experiences grounded in serenity, wellness, and excellence.

“At Brahman Hills, we do not pursue luxury for luxury sake,” says Cottle. “We pursue meaning, intention, and care. These Premium Signature Villas are being created as true sanctuaries; spaces where thoughtful design, natural textures, and elevated comfort come together to allow guests to rest deeply, reconnect, and leave transformed.”

Each 5-star Premium Signature Villa will offer generous interiors, world-class finishes, and uninterrupted views that draw the outdoors into the living experience, really showcasing Brahman Hills’ commitment to harmony with nature and attention to detail at every touchpoint.

The Signature Villas will sit at the pinnacle of the Brahman Hills experience, offering a curated range of included and optional experiences, thoughtfully designed to anticipate guest needs and create a seamless, deeply personal stay.

Included experiences may feature:

Dedicated butler service
Private chef for in-villa dining (available by arrangement)
Daily breakfast with speciality coffees and fresh juices
Thoughtful guest gifting
A complimentary bottle of Moët
Selected beer, cider, and soft drinks
A spa experience for each couple
Exclusive access to the Serenity Gardens (once completed)
Cottle adds, “When we say that Brahman Hills is a Sanctuary of Serenity, Wellness and Excellence it is more than a promise, it is a responsibility we carry in every guest experience.”

He says that Brahman Hills has never aspired to be ordinary, and never will. “We believe that to truly stand apart - in the Midlands, in KwaZulu-Natal, and in South Africa - one must be brave enough to think long-term and act with intention. When we elevate Brahman Hills, we elevate the region. When we raise standards, tourism rises with us. Our guests benefit, our communities benefit, and South Africa benefits.”

“This is not about scale. It is about legacy. It is about building something meaningful that will continue shifting lives today, tomorrow, and for generations to come,” he concludes.

To follow the Brahman Hills journey and witness this next chapter unfold, visit: https://www.brahmanhills.co.za/stories/an-extraordinary-world-class-sanctuary---launching-2026

When Funda Nenja reopens on Friday afternoon we anticipate a large number of Mpophomeni residents bringing their dogs to our primary veterinary care clinic as this service has been unavailable over the festive season break.

This weekly clinic is run by the wonderful Dr Dani who attends to an average of 50 dogs from the local community every Friday. Free rabies vaccination is given while deworming, parasite control and the 5 in1 vaccine is also available. In addition, minor ailments are also treated. More serious cases are taken for treatment to Midlands Veterinary Hospital who generously give us discounted rates and some cases are referred to the uMngeni SPCA clinic.

The Funda Nenja clinic has played a big role in improving the quality of life for Mpophomeni dogs as it is the only service provider in the township. Without this facility many dogs would suffer or die due to a lack of ready access to veterinary care. Currently the makeshift clinic operates in the change room of the Mpophomeni Sports Stadium, but our dream is to one day have our own building with proper facilities so we can better support the township animals.

Healthy dogs make for a healthy community and the general wellbeing of all.

Big John Clothing | A KZN Midlands Tradition

We stock simple, comfortable, and hard-working clothing and accessories for the whole family and corporates too!

Remember, we can courier countrywide.

Drop in to say "Hi"!

*Prices valid January 2026

Call on 033 330 4129

WhatsApp queries & orders on 063 157 0190

Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

View our website https://bigjohn.co.za/

Visit at 40 Main Street Howick

Sunfield Howick’s Charity Shop is proudly run by the Friends of Sunfield Home Volunteers (FoSH), whose time, care, and creativity help support the work of Sunfield and its Residents.

The shop offers a thoughtful mix of pre-loved items, along with beautiful hand-crafted creations made by both the volunteers and Sunfield’s Residents. At the moment, there are plenty of Valentine’s treats in stock — perfect for sharing a little love.

Visitors will also find baked goods and other food items, all made with care and sold in support of the Sunfield Family.

The Charity Shop’s first opening days for the year are:
Friday, 30 January 09:00 - 13:00 and Saturday, 31 January 09:00 - 12:00

Sunfield looks forward to welcoming the community back.

Yes, we DELIVER and INSTALL!

From beds to DSTV setups, appliances and more – we've got you covered from start to finish. Hassle-free service with a smile!

Need something repaired or replaced?

We're your local one-stop shop for all things home and workshop!

Pop in: 38 Main Street, Howick as well as Rycroft Building, Howick for beds and seconds.Howick

Call us: 033 330 4330

Visit: www.giovision.co.za

Carli Antonopoulos was covering up to 90km a week in training in the build-up to last year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile.

Having finished second in the elite women’s race in 2024, she was determined to go one better in 2025 before disaster struck. The Pretoria-based swimmer slipped while climbing into the boat to take her across the dam to the start for one of her warm-up swims and broke her arm.

That brought a lengthy halt to her training programme. “From the 8th of February until the beginning of May, I was basically out,” explained Antonopoulos.

“I was out the water for three weeks, and then the fourth week I was back in the water with my cast and everything. Then the cast came off because I lost too much muscle in my arm, but then I got a little mouldable brace thing. So that was quite good. But I had that on for another eight weeks after, so officially got cleared at the beginning of May.”

Since then, the 24-year-old has been playing catch-up, but, having won the final aQuellé Midmar Mile seeding swim, she can’t wait to get back to the famous KwaZulu-Natal dam for this year’s event which runs from 5-8 February.

“I feel like I need to redeem myself a little bit after falling last year, but I am very excited,” she reckoned. “Anything can happen on the day. So, I'm just excited to be there on the start line with all my friends, race hard, race fast… just see how it goes.”

Antonopoulos is currently being coached by former national champion Gary Albertyn, who achieved the incredible milestone of completing 200 aQuellé Midmar Mile swims in 2025, having only started swimming the race in 2012.

“It's very inspirational because obviously Gary has done so much and he's got a lot of experience,” she explained. “So, that's quite nice going into Midmar. He is able to help us out and give us some tips and tricks for the day, so that’s quite exciting.”

Having also missed last year’s SA National Open Water Championship because of the broken arm, Antonopoulos is looking forward to a return to that event as well – with plenty of mileage under her belt. But there’s also been a fair amount of speedwork in the mix.

“We've mostly been focused on open water champs, so mostly the 10km and the 5km,” she said. “But with Gary becoming our coach now, we've done a lot of speedwork as well. I guess that has helped the 1.2km, and the 1.6 for Midmar, so I think we've got the endurance, but we've also built up the speed. In previous years we didn't necessarily always have so much speed.”

That could make all the difference come race day on 8 February.

Online entries for the aQuellé Midmar Mile are open for a few more days, until 25 January. Those still wishing to enter should head to www.midmarmile.com for all the information.

Photo credit: Action Photo SA

Healthy hearing vs hearing loss…how do you know?

In short, healthy hearing means easily understanding speech in various environments, reacting appropriately to sounds, and not needing to turn up volume ON TV’s or radios constantly.

If you don’t tick all the boxes above, you may have a degree of hearing loss. And if that’s the case, it’s time to make an appointment with Butlin Hearing for a FREE hearing screening or a comprehensive hearing test and, if needed, let us assist you in choosing a hearing device that best suits your needs.

Contact Claire in our Howick office 033 330 3966 or Mark in our Pietermaritzburg office on 033 342 2330 and let Butlin Hearing welcome you to the world of sound!

Every February, thousands of swimmers take to the water at Midmar Dam in KwaZulu-Natal, but for those taking part in the aQuellé Midmar Mile Charity Challenge, every stroke carries extra meaning.

Since its launch in 2016, the Challenge has raised over R22 million rand for charities across South Africa. And this year, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) is joining the cause as one of the official charities.

For Paralympian-turned-community champion Adri Visser, the partnership feels like coming full circle. “When I retired as a Paralympic swimmer in 2016, I wasn't sure if I would be swimming Midmar again. And then I just felt like I really wanted to do it recreationally for 2025.

“I started training for it and I really enjoyed it, and I got to connect with [race director] Wayne Riddin again and it was just so nice to be back in the community that I was a part of for 16 years,” explained Visser, who was born with no hands and only one leg but went on to set six African records in the pool.

Visser, who works at the NCPD, immediately wanted to get involved beyond just swimming across the dam. “Midmar is a big supporter of disability swimming… we had a nice chat, and Wayne agreed to make NCPD a charity for 2026 and going forward.”

Four swimmers will be raising funds for the NCPD during the Charity Challenge, which takes place over two days, from 5-6 February, before the main races are contested on 7-8 February. Among them is Riddin himself, who will take on the 8-mile Challenge while part of the funds being raised by Sydney Olympic medallist Terence Parkin and Reino von Wielligh (who are tackling a gruelling 32km over the weekend) will also be added to the cause.

Also among those swimmers is one of the youngest to take on the 8-Mile Challenge, 14-year-old Connor Crutchley. “He had head surgery just when he was born. So he knows what it's like to almost have a disability that could affect the rest of your life. But he's recuperating, and he's doing it because it’s a good cause towards his life story as well,” said Visser.

For the NCPD, apart from raising vital funds, the partnership is also about visibility, advocacy, and giving people with disabilities a voice. As Visser puts it: “It makes you realise that your work is not just the work, it's passion, it’s about giving back to the community and giving a voice for a person with a disability, a voice they don't have themselves.”

With millions already raised through the aQuellé Midmar Mile Charity Challenge over the years, the NCPD’s inclusion promises to add even more heart to the world’s largest open-water swimming event.

“I'm hoping that it will grow more than what it is now. My heart is set on more than 20 swimmers [raising money] for 2027... I think just to see a little bit of growth would be amazing,” said Visser.

Online entries for the aQuellé Midmar Mile are still open for a few more days. Those wishing to take part should head to www.midmarmile.com.

Pictured above: Adri Visser at 2025 aQuelle Midmar Mile - Credit ActionPhotoSA

Did you know? KSS and every member of our team are fully PSIRA registered and compliant.

The Importance of Being PSIRA Registered

Registering with PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority) is a legal requirement for any security provider in South Africa, it ensures legality, professionalism and accountability. PSIRA registration confirms that a security company and its personnel meet the required legal standards to operate.

PSIRA registration:
Ensures compliance with South African law
Confirms proper training and competency of security officers
Promotes ethical conduct and professionalism
Protects clients from unqualified or illegal operators
Holds security providers accountable through regulation and oversight

Choosing a PSIRA registered company means choosing a service that is trusted, regulated, and committed to maintaining high industry standards and public safety.

Hot Items include: Gas Bottles; Truck Battery and Welding Machine.

You can also contact our KSS Management Team for any other information on:
Gary (Owner): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 082 8947 628
Renee (Business Manager): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 063 2921 240
Sashen (Manager Technical): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 082 6736 773
Pat (Manager Operations): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 082 6132 995
Local 24/7 Control Room: 033 330 5911

Johannesburg swimmer Mayuri Bhowan will mark a major milestone at the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile as she aims to cross the finish line for the 20th time.

It’s a journey that began as a 12-year-old in 1995 and has now become a family tradition spanning generations. Beside her will be her 14-year-old daughter, Kiara Naidoo, who is targeting her fifth crossing of the famous KwaZulu-Natal dam.

For Bhowan, the aQuellé Midmar Mile, which this year takes place from 5-8 February, has always been about more than just swimming. “My parents played a huge role in inspiring me to swim my very first Midmar Mile in 1995. They saw potential and drive in me, and I just needed that extra nudge. I already loved swimming, especially long-distance swims, so the idea of swimming the Midmar Mile excited me,” she recalls.

“Completing that first race gave me an incredible sense of accomplishment. I was instantly hooked. For the first time after trying many extracurricular activities, I realised that swimming was the one thing that brought me the most joy.”

Over the years, the Midmar Mile became a weekend the family looked forward to. “I simply loved it. My parents always went the extra mile to make sure I could be there, and that support meant everything. It also became a special family weekend away, which added to the magic... Those weekends, the travel, the preparation, and the family time became just as special as the race itself and are a big reason why Midmar has always held such a special place in my heart.

“Those memories, combined with the atmosphere and sense of achievement, kept pulling me back year after year.”

Now, that tradition continues with Bhowan’s daughter, Kiara. “I saw the same drive and motivation in my daughter. She’s very much a mini‑me. She started swimming competitively at the age of nine.”

Describing their first Midmar swim together in 2022, Bhowan reckoned: “It was completely surreal. I felt an overwhelming sense of pride swimming alongside her.

“It means the world to me. After narrowly pipping her in our first Midmar swim together, she now beats me by a large margin, and she’s performing even better than I did at her age.”

Since then, Kiara has completed the aQuellé Midmar Miles four times and is now aiming for her fifth, while Bhowan prepares for her 20th. “Completing 20 Midmar Mile swims would be a huge personal milestone for me. It means 20 family gatherings, 20 years of smiles and 20 years of family bonding. To be doing it alongside my daughter, who will be swimming her fifth mile, makes it even more meaningful as she, too loves the family time together.”

The family’s Midmar tradition extends beyond the water. Their pre-race ritual includes a short getaway in the Drakensberg, filled with hearty meals, cricket matches, stretching sessions, and plenty of quality time together. And on race day, the banks of the dam are lined with generations of supporters – Bhowan’s parents, her brother Amit (himself a 10-time Midmar finisher), her husband, and her son.

“My parents have never missed a single race even after I got married, so having my lifelong supporters still by our side is very special to both my daughter and I.”

Those still hoping to experience some of that magic of the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile can still enter online at www.midmarmile.com

Pictured here: Kiara Naidoo and mom Mayuri Bhowan in 2025

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier

The Class of 2025 has much to celebrate after achieving an outstanding 100% Matric pass rate. This exceptional result stands as a true reflection of the learners’ hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment throughout their academic journey.

Despite facing challenges, long hours of study, and moments of uncertainty, the Class of 2025 remained focused, determined, and faithful. Their dedication has been rewarded with results that reflect both academic excellence and personal growth.

The school is proud to report a total of 64 distinctions, along with an impressive 83.3% Bachelor’s Degree pass rate. In addition, learner performance exceeded the IEB national average in three subjects: Afrikaans First Additional Language, isiZulu First Additional Language, and Physical Science — a significant achievement that highlights the strength of teaching and learning across key disciplines.

As these learners step into the next chapter of their lives, they do so equipped with strong values, meaningful lessons, and a solid educational foundation. Education is an adventure, and the journey ahead promises new opportunities for growth, learning, and success. With faith as their guide, the Class of 2025 is encouraged to move forward with confidence, courage, and gratitude, knowing that with God, all things are possible.

The school extends sincere appreciation and gratitude to its dedicated teachers, whose unwavering support, guidance, and commitment played a vital role in this remarkable achievement. Their passion and perseverance continue to shape future leaders and lifelong learners.

For further information please visit www.treverton.co.za

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is grappling with a severe and persistent Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak that has been described as part of the "worst livestock farming disaster" in South African history.

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a severe, highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, deer, giraffes, llamas, alpacas, water buffalo and other cloven-hoofed ruminants. Ruminants are herbivorous mammals, which have specialized, multi-chambered stomachs that allow them to digest tough, fibrous plants. It’s a transboundary animal disease (TAD) which spreads rapidly. Animals can be infected by contaminated farming equipment, vehicles, clothing, and feed, and by domestic and wild predators. It is extremely difficult to contain and eradicate. Accepted methods include vaccination, strict monitoring, trade restrictions, quarantines, and the culling of both infected and healthy (uninfected) animals

𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘂𝘀 (𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲)
• Epicentre: KZN remains the hardest-hit province, with over 180 unresolved outbreaks as of late 2025 and 2026.

• Recent Spread: New cases were confirmed Ladysmith, Winterton, and Estcourt. Suspected in commercial piggeries in the Winterton/Bergville district.
• Highly Affected Areas: Dundee, Dannhauser, Newcastle, Alfred Duma, Okhahlamba, uMshwathi, eDumbe, and eMadlangeni.
• Virus Strains: The province is dealing with both SAT1 and SAT2 strains, complicating control efforts.

𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁
• Dairy Crisis: KZN’s dairy sector produces roughly 30% of the nation's milk. Outbreak is threatening national food security.

• Pork Industry Risk: Concern that suspected cases in KZN’s commercial piggeries will result in high mortality rates in suckling piglets.
• Public activities: Piggly Wiggly parkrun and others have been suspended indefinitely to prevent the spread of the virus through human and vehicle movement.
• Vaccination: A nationwide campaign planned for February 2026 to target all cattle. Currently, is primarily reactive due to vaccine shortages.

Note on Human Health: FMD in livestock is not the same as Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in humans. FMD does not pose a threat to human health. Meat from restricted areas remains safe for consumption if processed at designated abattoirs.

Farmers have set up spraying points at the entry points into our town, and we urge everyone to do their part and get their vehicles sprayed.

There are spray points at the Curry's Post / Karkloof turnoff and at TWK.

*Source of some copy unknown but acknowledged with thanks

For adoptions and other queries call uMngeni SPCA on 033 330 4557 during office hours or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For VET bookings call us on 064 671 8646 during office hours to book your pets' appointment. All welcome!

For animal emergencies please call 082 567 8297