National Assembly member Job Amupanda has written to the Namibian ministry of agriculture, fisheries, water and land reform seeking urgent clarification on nationwide restrictions imposed following a Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak at a commercial farm in Karasburg. The restrictions have been applied across the country despite the outbreak being confined to a single farm within the FMD Free Zone. Amupanda's lawyers, Kadhila Amoomo Legal Practitioners, submitted the letter on 24 September.
Amupanda questions the justification for applying the restrictions nationwide when the Veterinary Cordon Fence, also known as the Redline, was established to separate disease-control and disease-free areas. He argues that this measure was put in place to prevent the spread of disease and seeks to understand why the ministry has chosen to impose a blanket ban on livestock movement and trade. The lawmaker's concerns center on the lack of clear explanations for the decisions made by the ministry.
The letter sent to the ministry raises several key questions, including the specific legal provisions supporting the nationwide suspension of livestock movement and imports and exports. Amupanda also wants to know if a formal state of emergency has been declared and what scientific or veterinary assessment was conducted to justify extending restrictions to unaffected areas. Furthermore, he inquires about the impact of the restrictions on domestic and customary slaughter for traditional ceremonies.
Amupanda's letter also seeks clarity on the economic impact of the suspension, possible compensation or financial relief for affected farmers and value-chain businesses, and the expected duration of the restrictions. The lawmaker is concerned about the potential consequences of these restrictions on the livelihoods of those in the agricultural sector and the overall economy. His lawyers have requested that the ministry provide detailed answers to these questions.
In addition to seeking clarification on the current situation, Amupanda is calling for regular public updates on laboratory results, outbreak maps, and containment progress. He also requests consultation with farmers' organisations and other industry stakeholders to ensure that all parties are informed and involved in the decision-making process. This, he believes, will help in managing the situation effectively and mitigating the impact of the disease.
Amupanda's lawyers have given the ministry seven days to respond to the queries, failing which they may consider further steps, including an urgent court application and/or raising the matter in parliament. This ultimatum underscores the urgency with which Amupanda views the situation and his determination to ensure that the rights and interests of affected parties are protected.
The restrictions have been imposed following the detection of FMD at a commercial farm in Karasburg in the //Kharas Region. The disease can have significant economic implications for the livestock industry, which is a crucial sector for Namibia's economy. The government's response to the outbreak and the measures taken to contain it will be closely watched by stakeholders and the general public.
Key points
- - The restrictions were imposed following an FMD outbreak at a commercial farm in Karasburg. - Amupanda seeks clarification on the justification for nationwide restrictions. - The lawmaker's lawyers have given the ministry seven days to respond to the queries.
