Image created by Dr. Michael J. Miller
At the Science Forum 2024, held at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) unveiled an innovative point-of-care diagnostic device.
This cutting-edge technology is designed to rapidly detect avian influenza (bird flu) and foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), two of the most concerning diseases affecting South Africa’s livestock industry.
According to the TIA, the diagnostic device represents a significant advancement in tackling these outbreaks on farms, a challenge that has long plagued the country’s agriculture sector. The device, developed by the CSIR and funded by the TIA, is expected to help farmers combat the spread of FMD and avian influenza by providing swift and accurate diagnoses.
“The TIA, an entity of the Department of Science and Innovation, is funding a Gauteng-based start-up that is developing a diagnostic test kit for the early detection of FMD. This is a 4IR-enabled technology that allows for rapid detection of both avian influenza and FMD,” said Halalisiwe Msimango, portfolio manager for agriculture at TIA in an interview with Farmer’s Weekly.
She explained that the point-of-care technology, which can deliver results within just an hour, is a crucial tool for livestock farmers.
“Currently, testing for diseases such as FMD often takes up to two weeks, leaving a window for disease spread that can devastate herds. This new system, however, will enable farmers to make quick, informed decisions about isolating infected animals, thereby reducing the risk of outbreaks spreading across farms and rural areas,” she said.
“Farmers will be able to isolate diseased animals much faster, preventing the spread of infection. The results are available on a mobile device linked to government’s livestock disease surveillance database, providing live updates on the status of livestock. This not only benefits farmers but also strengthens South Africa’s position in the global beef export market.”
Msimango explained that the technology, which has been licensed to TokaBio for commercialisation, is designed to be easy to use in remote and rural areas where traditional diagnostic services are often inaccessible.
It enables rapid diagnostics at the point of care, which is especially important for farmers in rural areas where travel to testing facilities can be challenging.
TokaBio, a company based in South Africa, is now the primary distributor of this technology.
“We are excited to bring this innovation to farmers. It’s a game-changer for the agriculture sector, enabling quicker responses to disease outbreaks and enhancing surveillance systems at a national level,” said Msimango.
She added that the technology had been tested in various countries, including Rwanda, Lesotho, and Zambia, where outbreaks of FMD and avian influenza have also occurred.
“These international trials have proved the system’s effectiveness, and large-scale trials in South Africa are expected to enhance the device’s integration into everyday farming practices,” she said.
“The rollout of this technology is expected to happen in phases, with initial deployment targeting high-risk areas. Its success could pave the way for broader use across the continent, potentially enhancing livestock export opportunities for other nations.”
According to Msimango, the introduction of such 4IR-enabled technologies is crucial for the country’s preparedness to manage animal disease outbreaks.
“The existing state resources and skill sets are insufficient for timely responses to these threats. This technology empowers farmers with the tools they need to address the situation efficiently,” she said.