TIA launches R14m rapid disease testing station in Limpopo

The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) has launched a R14 million rapid disease testing station in Modimolle, Limpopo. The station, situated on an ostrich farm, aims to assist both cattle and ostrich farmers in testing diseases like foot and mouth and bird flu. Dr Titus Mathe, the Chief Executive Officer of TIA, revealed that the test pilot project was partially funded by neighboring countries.

TIA's role is to transition laboratory concepts into practical applications, and they are acting as both an enabler and catalyst for this technology. They targeted this project after identifying the need for a solution to foot-and-mouth disease and avian flu, which are regional challenges affecting not just South Africa but the Southern African Development Community (SADC) as well.

TIA began the project in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) with funding support from TIA, leading to its readiness for market deployment.