Karasburg:The government has allocated N$190 million to address the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in the Karasburg Veterinary District of the ||Kharas Region. This includes approximately N$47 million for constructing 290 kilometers of disease-control fencing.According to Namibia Press Agency, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform Inge Zaamwani provided an update on the situation, stating that by October 2, 2026, the Directorate of Veterinary Services had received 531 samples for laboratory analysis. Out of these, 79 tested positive for FMD across 11 farms, while 450 were negative. One sample remains unconfirmed pending further testing.The outbreak was first detected on September 22 during routine clinical surveillance at a farm in the Graswater area and has been identified as FMD serotype SAT 1. Confirmed infections are primarily within the Karasburg State Veterinary District. Investigations continue to assess the full extent of the outbreak and the potential role of livestock movements in spreading the disease.Zaamwani reported the deployment of 13 surveillance teams to the affected areas. By October 2, veterinary officials had inspected 15,096 animals on 66 of the 81 targeted farms, with the remaining farms expected to be inspected by October 5. Livestock movements related to 47 establishments within a 30-kilometer radius of the affected areas have also been scrutinized, extending up to 50 kilometers from the affected premises.The ministry emphasized the importance of promptly removing infected animals as part of the response. Preparations are underway for necessary notices, logistical arrangements, and operational support for culling infected livestock as directed by veterinary authorities.Of the total funding, approximately N$47,017,591.50 is designated for new fencing construction. The proposed fence will run from Ariamsvlei through Karasburg to Ai-Ais, aimed at enhancing separation between the containment zone and surrounding areas while enforcing livestock movement con trols.