Windhoek: Namibia’s Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)-free zone is not adequately prepared and ready for a potential outbreak, a risk that could cripple the country’s livestock sector and shut the door to international markets. This was highlighted by Deputy Executive Director in the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Kingsley Kwenani, during the sixth edition of the Bank Windhoek Agricultural Series.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Kwenani emphasized the severe consequences of an FMD outbreak in the free zone, which stretches from //Kharas to Oshivelo and Mururani. He warned that such an event would have ‘immediate and severe’ impacts, especially on export earnings. He stated that the outbreak could devastate the entire agriculture sector and end Namibia’s access to lucrative European markets overnight if a single case were detected in the zone.

Namibia’s vulnerability is further increased by a recent FMD outbreak in neighboring South Africa, a key regional supplier of livestock products and a transit corridor for animal imports. Kwenani noted that South Africa’s struggle to contain FMD serves as a wake-up call for Namibia, emphasizing the need to prevent and contain FMD from entering the country.

Kwenani, who previously held a leadership role at Meatco, reminded attendees that Namibia had successfully contained FMD outbreaks in the northern communal areas before. However, he stressed that the stakes are now higher due to the country’s export reputation. He highlighted the importance of maintaining the FMD-free zone, as regaining this status, once lost, could take many years.

In addition, Bank Windhoek Managing Director James Chapman reaffirmed the bank’s support for agriculture through tailored products. He emphasized the importance of sustainable and climate-smart practices during the event. Chapman added that this year’s theme, ‘Understanding Genetic Diversity in Agriculture,’ is crucial for building a resilient sector.

The event gathered farmers, policymakers, and sector leaders to discuss the future of Namibian agriculture amidst climate and disease threats.