South Africa: Public Urged to Help Eliminate Rabies

As South Africa joins the globe in observing World Rabies Day, Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp has urged South Africans to play their part in preventing and eliminating rabies by ensuring that their dogs and cats are vaccinated against the deadly disease.

Observed on 28 September, World Rabies Day is an annual awareness campaign aimed at promoting rabies prevention and highlighting progress towards eliminating the disease.

The 2026 observance marks the 20th World Rabies Day, held under the theme: "Stronger Together", highlighting the importance of collaboration among communities, pet owners, veterinary professionals, healthcare workers, government departments, policymakers, and partner organisations in the fight against rabies.