Safety measures for Splashy Fen Festival amid Foot and Mouth Disease concerns

THE 35th edition of South Africa’s longest-running music festival, Splashy Fen, is set to take place from April 2 to 6, with robust mitigation measures firmly established to ensure safety and compliance as concerns surrounding Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) continue to loom over KwaZulu-Natal.

The organisers of the festival have provided reassurance to both attendees and the local community, saying "Foot and Mouth Disease is a serious illness that affects livestock, and it is being treated with the utmost seriousness by Splashy Fen and the broader Underberg community.

However, it is essential to note that FMD does not pose a threat to human health. Following extensive dialogue with relevant authorities, Splashy Fen has been classified as a low-risk event concerning potential FMD transmission".

In a statement, the festival organisers said the venue is accessible via a single district road, which streamlines the access for festivalgoers while effectively reducing any risk of disease transmission. The Splashy Fen farm has no livestock on the property.

"Splashy Fen organisers have worked closely with government agencies, the Underberg Farmers’ Association, and all relevant authorities, who collectively agree that the festival should take place and that the mitigation measures being implemented are appropriate and effective.

“We fully acknowledge the concerns around Foot and Mouth Disease and are committed to doing everything necessary to mitigate the already low risk associated with the event,” read the statement.

Splashy Fen has established itself as a cornerstone of the Underberg community, significantly contributing to tourism and economic activity in the region.

Underberg remains a key tourism destination and welcomed over 75,000 visitors during December and January.

SUNDAY TRIBUNE