AS the holiday season approaches and travel increases, Namibia is urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), a highly contagious animal illness that poses serious risks to the country’s livestock industry. The Department of Veterinary Services emphasises that even small lapses in biosecurity could have devastating consequences for Namibia’s animals, farmers, and economy.
Foot-and-mouth disease affects cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and some wildlife, causing painful blisters that hinder animals’ ability to eat or move, with young animals often succumbing to the disease. For Namibia, the threat extends far beyond animal welfare. The country relies heavily on international markets for its red meat, as only a third of production is consumed locally. An outbreak of FMD would immediately halt exports, devastate rural economies, destroy thousands of jobs, and force the culling of infected livestock, with losses potentially running into billions of Namibian dollars.
One of the greatest risks comes from people unknowingly carrying the virus. FMD can cling to shoes, clothing, vehicle wheels, and equipment, and can even survive in the human airway for days. Animal products, including raw, dried, or processed meat, milk, cheese, and other dairy items, can also transmit the virus. Cold storage does not destroy it, and pasteurised products may still pose a risk; only prolonged high heat can eliminate the virus.
To prevent the introduction of FMD, Namibia enforces strict biosecurity measures at all points of entry. Travellers are prohibited from bringing meat, dairy, or any other products from cloven-hoofed animals without an official permit certifying their safety. Border and airport officials may disinfect shoes and vehicles, and any products found without a permit will be confiscated and destroyed. These measures are critical to protect Namibia’s animal health and maintain its status as one of the few African countries officially free of FMD without vaccination—a designation that allows premium meat exports and would be extremely difficult to regain if lost.
All visitors, including hunters, tourists, truck drivers, courier and transport providers, and returning residents, are encouraged to cooperate with biosecurity protocols. A single lapse could undo decades of effort. Namibia welcomes guests to enjoy its beautiful landscapes, friendly communities, world-class meat, and well-stocked shops, but urges everyone to remain informed, respect veterinary authorities, and support the country’s efforts to protect its animals, farmers, and economy.
Source: Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU)
