Pretoria: Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has welcomed the establishment of the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC), saying its composition brings together a broad and diverse range of expertise from the veterinary and para-veterinary professions, academia, regulatory practice, and law. The Minister formally constituted the council in accordance with the Veterinary and Para-Veterinary Professions Act, 1982 (Act No. 19 of 1982). The term of office of the newly-constituted council will run from 1 February 2026 to 31 January 2029.
According to South African Government News Agency, Steenhuisen said the depth and diversity of skills represented on the council would strengthen its ability to fulfil its statutory mandate in the interests of animal health, veterinary public health, food safety, and professional integrity. He expressed confidence that the council's composition reflects a careful balance between professional experience, technical expertise, and independent oversight, which will enhance the quality of decision-making.
He emphasised that the constitution of the new council followed a careful and considered process, undertaken in line with his statutory responsibilities and oversight role. While a range of views and representations were received from across the sector during this period, Steenhuisen said he independently considered the recommendations before him and was guided at all times by the requirements of the legislation and the long-term interests of both the professions and the public.
The council has been constituted with various appointees, including ministerial designees such as Dr Motsisi-Mehlape, Dr R Mulder, Dr B Lourens, and Dr JA Fraser. Additionally, Advocate R Maruma has been designated for legal expertise, along with a diverse group of veterinarians, specialists, and representatives from academic institutions.
Steenhuisen expressed confidence that the council will execute its duties without fear or favour, and with the independence, integrity, and professionalism required of a statutory regulator entrusted with safeguarding professional standards of the veterinary and para-veterinary professions. He highlighted the establishment of the council as an important step in restoring stability, credibility, and effective governance within the veterinary regulatory environment.
The Minister acknowledged the patience shown by practitioners and stakeholders during the period leading up to the reconstitution of the council and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that statutory bodies within the agriculture sector function effectively, transparently, and in the public interest. The induction and inaugural meeting of the new council is scheduled for February 2026, enabling it to commence its work without delay and address outstanding matters inherited from the previous term in accordance with its statutory mandate.