Renthia Kaimbi
Meatco has welcomed the partial lifting of restrictions following the detection of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in the Karasburg Veterinary District, saying the latest developments provide some relief to Namibia’s livestock industry.
According to Meatco, intensified surveillance, livestock inspections and traceability measures indicate that the disease remains localised in the //Kharas region.
Livestock that had moved from the infected farm to the Otjozondjupa region were successfully traced and tested negative for FMD, allowing the affected herd to be cleared of infection.
The revised veterinary measures allow for the partial lifting of restrictions north of the Veterinary Cordon Fence and in areas south of the fence, excluding the //Kharas region.
Slaughter is also permitted under prescribed veterinary and biosecurity conditions, while the movement and trade of specified processed animal products are allowed countrywide.
Meatco said the developments demonstrate Namibia’s ability to respond to animal disease outbreaks while progressively restoring parts of the livestock value chain to normal operations.
The meat processor stressed that Namibia’s animal-health, surveillance and traceability systems remain critical to protecting livestock producers, the national herd and confidence in Namibian beef, particularly given the country’s reliance on international export markets.
Meatco said it will continue working with the Directorate of Veterinary Services and other stakeholders while aligning its procurement, slaughter and market activities with veterinary requirements.
However, the corporation urged farmers and other players across the livestock value chain to remain vigilant and comply fully with veterinary measures and guidance.
Photo: Contributed
#WindhoekObserver
