Namibia Stops Livestock Trade After FMD Detection

Livestock movements and related trade have been suspended across Namibia after foot-and-mouth disease was found in cattle at a commercial farm in the southern Kharas Region.

Acting Agriculture Minister Charles Mubita told parliament that the outbreak was identified through routine surveillance. Ten out of 11 samples collected from cattle showing symptoms on September 22 tested positive the following day.

The affected region shares a border with South Africa, which is currently dealing with a serious foot-and-mouth disease outbreak and plans to vaccinate about 80 percent of its national cattle herd.

Namibia has suspended the movement of cloven-hoofed animals and their products nationwide. Imports and exports of the animals and related products have also been stopped until further notice.

Mubita said the restrictions could have serious economic consequences for the country’s livestock sector.