Splashy Fen confirms April festival will go ahead in spite of Foot-and-Mouth concerns

Organisers of Splashy Fen have confirmed that South Africa’s longest-running music festival will proceed as planned from April 2 to 6, despite growing concerns around Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

Ahead of the festival’s 35th edition, Splashy Fen management moved to reassure festivalgoers, local farmers and residents that extensive mitigation measures were in place, following consultations with government agencies, agricultural bodies and local authorities.

Foot and Mouth Disease, which affects livestock but poses no risk to humans, has been a topical concern across the province in recent months. However, organisers said the festival has been classified as a low-risk event in terms of FMD transmission.

The Splashy Fen site is accessed via a single district road leading directly onto the farm, which does not house livestock. Attendees enter and exit along the same route, significantly limiting the potential for disease spread.

The organisers said they have worked closely with the Underberg Farmers’ Association and relevant authorities, all of whom agree that the festival can safely proceed.

“As a festival deeply rooted in this community for over three decades, we take our responsibility to local farmers and residents extremely seriously,” the organisers said in a statement.

“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.”

Now in its 35th year, Splashy Fen has become a cornerstone of the Underberg community and a significant driver of tourism and economic activity in the region. The organisers noted that events hosted in the area play a vital role in supporting businesses and livelihoods within the Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Municipality.

Underberg remained a key tourism destination, welcoming more than 75,000 visitors during December and January alone.

Festival organisers said they remain committed to ongoing cooperation with authorities and the farming community to ensure the event is delivered responsibly, while continuing to celebrate music, culture and community in one of South Africa’s most treasured regions.

Further updates will be shared through Splashy Fen’s official social media platforms.

DAILY NEWS