Staff Reporter
THE importation of maize seeds into Namibia from South Africa is no longer prohibited.
This was announced by the Executive Director of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata, who confirmed that the ban has been lifted with immediate effect. She explained that the restriction was originally imposed as a precautionary measure following the detection of Goss’s Wilt in maize seeds imported from South Africa.
“This temporary ban was initially imposed as a precautionary measure following the detection of Goss’s Wilt (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis) in maize seed from the Republic of South Africa. In response, Namibia has reviewed and updated its phytosanitary import requirements to safeguard against and reduce the risk of introducing this and other harmful plant pathogens,” announced the Ministry’s Executive Director, Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata.
Despite the lifting of the restrictions, Nghituwamata urged all importers and relevant stakeholders to remain vigilant and to strictly adhere to the updated phytosanitary import requirements.
“These measures are essential to prevent the introduction and spread of Goss’s Wilt into Namibia. Importers are specifically reminded that the movement of any maize seed consignments suspected of contamination remains strictly prohibited. The Ministry appeals to all stakeholders and members of the public to comply with all phytosanitary measures and best practices to ensure the continued health and safety of Namibia’s crops and agricultural resources,” Nghituwamata added.
Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: Agriforum Namibian
