Meatco has expressed relief over the partial easing of restrictions imposed due to the outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in the Karasburg Veterinary District. The development comes after intensified surveillance, livestock inspections, and traceability measures indicated that the disease remains localized in the //Kharas region. This has allowed for some restrictions to be lifted, providing a boost to Namibia's livestock industry.
According to Meatco, livestock that had moved from the infected farm to the Otjozondjupa region were successfully traced and tested negative for FMD. This enabled the affected herd to be cleared of infection, contributing to the partial lifting of restrictions. The revised veterinary measures permit the lifting of restrictions north of the Veterinary Cordon Fence and in areas south of the fence, excluding the //Kharas region.
The easing of restrictions also allows for slaughter under prescribed veterinary and biosecurity conditions. Additionally, the movement and trade of specified processed animal products are permitted countrywide. Meatco views these developments as a demonstration of Namibia's ability to respond to animal disease outbreaks while progressively restoring parts of the livestock value chain to normal operations.
Meatco emphasizes that Namibia's animal-health, surveillance, and traceability systems are critical to protecting livestock producers, the national herd, and confidence in Namibian beef. The country's reliance on international export markets makes these systems even more crucial. Meatco will continue working with the Directorate of Veterinary Services and other stakeholders to align its activities with veterinary requirements.
The meat processor urges farmers and other players across the livestock value chain to remain vigilant and comply fully with veterinary measures and guidance. This, Meatco believes, is essential to maintaining the progress made so far in controlling the FMD outbreak. The corporation is committed to working closely with stakeholders to ensure the continued health and safety of Namibia's livestock.
The partial easing of restrictions is seen as a positive step towards restoring normal operations in the livestock industry. Meatco's procurement, slaughter, and market activities will continue to be aligned with veterinary requirements to ensure compliance. The development is expected to bring relief to livestock producers and stakeholders who have been affected by the FMD outbreak.
The impact of the FMD outbreak on Namibia's livestock industry has been significant. However, with the partial easing of restrictions, the sector is expected to start recovering. Meatco's welcome of the development reflects the importance of this step in restoring confidence in the industry and ensuring the continued health and safety of Namibia's livestock.
Key points
- Meatco welcomes partial lifting of FMD restrictions in Namibia's Karasburg Veterinary District.
- The easing of restrictions allows for slaughter and trade of processed animal products under certain conditions.
- Meatco stresses the importance of vigilance and compliance with veterinary measures to control the FMD outbreak.
