Staff Reporter
THE Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU) has called on government and industry stakeholders to treat the recovery of Namibia’s export markets with the same determination as the control of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), following the European Union’s temporary suspension of certain meat imports from Namibia.
“The NAU takes note of the EU’s decision. It is a standard measure after an FMD outbreak in a recognised free zone, and the NAU respects the right of Namibia’s trading partners to protect their own animal health. However, the union stresses that the suspension must remain temporary, and that the work to restore market access must start now,” the NAU stated.
The union emphasised that Namibia has earned its place in the European market over decades, maintaining its FMD-free zone for more than 60 years through strict veterinary controls, robust traceability systems and high production standards.
“One outbreak, confined to one district, does not erase that record. The emphasis must be on temporary. We want Namibian meat back on European shelves as soon as possible,” the union added.
According to the NAU, the swift, transparent and professional response by the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) should give Namibia’s trading partners the confidence to work with Namibian authorities on a fast, science-based pathway back to the market.
“Every week that our markets remain closed costs producers, farmworkers and rural communities dearly. We fully support DVS in containing the outbreak, and we stand ready to support every effort by government and our trading partners to restore our status and our market access at the earliest possible opportunity,” the NAU added.
The union also acknowledged the financial strain the suspension places on producers and urged farmers to plan cautiously, engage their financial institutions early and continue adhering to guidance issued by the DVS.
Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: NAU
