Tunis:Omaheke Livestock farmers in the Omaheke region have been urged by the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) to apply for stock brands and register their livestock. This measure is intended to facilitate easy traceability and identification of the animals.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the stock brand identification is a legal requirement under the Stock Brands Act No. 24 of 1995 and the Animal Health Act. These regulations are crucial for tracking animal health, preventing stock theft, and authorizing legal livestock marketing.

The DVS highlighted in a recent media statement that its Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) awareness campaign revealed non-compliance among farmers, particularly in the Eiseb-Block, Epukiro, and Otjombinde areas. Many cattle and small stock in these regions are not branded or registered, contravening the Animal Health Act No.1 of 2011, the Animal Identification Regulations, and the Stock Brands Act No. 24 of 1995.

The statement stressed the importance of proper livestock identification to enable authorities to trace animals effectively. It also urged farmers in unregistered villages to ensure their areas are registered in compliance with the law, which is vital for tracking livestock locations, especially during FMD outbreaks.

Farmers are required to complete an application form with the DVS, accompanied by all necessary documents. Once registered, livestock must be linked to the correct village. This process is essential for maintaining property rights, controlling animal diseases, and supporting Namibia's export market.