Staff Reporter
THE Livestock Producers Organisation (LPO) has urged farmers across Namibia to strengthen biosecurity measures and strictly comply with animal health regulations as the threat of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) continues to pose a serious risk to the country’s livestock sector and export markets.
In a message addressed to producers, LPO chairperson Jako van Wyk warned that the disease remains a real and immediate threat at Namibia’s borders, emphasising that the country’s ability to maintain access to key international markets depends on the actions taken by farmers on a daily basis.
Van Wyk said that while many countries have lost access to lucrative export markets due to outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease, Namibia has managed to retain its status through years of disciplined farming practices and adherence to strict animal health standards.
He stressed that the responsibility for protecting the country’s livestock industry rests primarily with farmers, as outbreaks occur on farms rather than in urban centres.
According to the LPO, producers are expected to maintain strict biosecurity measures, comply fully with all animal health regulations, and immediately report any suspicious symptoms that may indicate the presence of the disease.
Farmers were further advised not to buy or sell livestock outside approved channels, to control access to farms by vehicles, visitors and workers, and to ensure that vehicles, equipment and footwear are disinfected where necessary.
The organisation also cautioned against bringing feed, semen, embryos or other genetic material onto farms without first verifying their origin and health status.
Van Wyk called on producers to report any suspected illegal activities, including the smuggling of animals and genetic material across borders, warning that such practices could undermine national disease-control efforts.
“A virus does not respect borders. One weak link creates risk for the entire system,” he said.
He added that every decision taken by individual farmers has implications beyond their own operations, affecting the wider agricultural sector and Namibia’s reputation in export markets.
Van Wyk said Namibia’s favourable animal health status has been earned through years of commitment and high standards but warned that it could quickly be lost if vigilance is not maintained.
He described farmers as the country’s first and last line of defence against foot-and-mouth disease, urging them to remain alert and committed to protecting the livestock industry.
PICTURED: LPO chairperson Jako van Wyk. Photo: Namibia Agricultural Union
