LLPBN helps DVS stay mobile in fight against FMD

The Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia (LLPBN) has strengthened Namibia’s Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) preparedness by funding and procuring essential equipment for the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS), while also urging farmers and the public to remain vigilant in protecting the country’s FMD-free status.

Mobile emergency equipment

In a statement issued on 2 February, the LLPBN confirmed that it is assisting the DVS in an operational support capacity through the implementation of measures contained in the national FMD contingency plan. As part of this support, the board has funded and procured equipment and materials required to establish a dedicated FMD emergency store.

The emergency store is housed in a container designed for rapid deployment and can be moved immediately to a suspected outbreak site upon request from the DVS. According to the LLPBN, this mobile unit allows veterinary officials to respond quickly and efficiently during a suspected FMD incident, reducing delays that could allow the disease to spread further.

The board said the initiative forms part of its proactive approach to safeguarding Namibia’s livestock industry against the potentially severe economic and trade impacts of an FMD outbreak.

Keeping Namibia FMD-free

Separately, the LLPBN has issued a public advisory emphasising the importance of maintaining Namibia’s FMD-free zone, located south of the Veterinary Cordon Fence and monitored by the DVS.

The FMD-free status underpins Namibia’s access to premium international meat markets, supports thousands of farmers and workers, and helps maintain the country’s international trade credibility.

Foot-and-Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. Although it does not affect humans, it can spread rapidly between animals and cause severe economic losses.

The advisory highlights that protecting the FMD-free zone depends on strict movement control of livestock and livestock products, enforcement at veterinary checkpoints and entry points, and ongoing inspections and surveillance.

Farmers and livestock owners are urged not to move animals without permits, to report sick animals immediately to the nearest veterinarian, and to comply fully with veterinary regulations.

The LLPBN said every citizen has a role to play in protecting Namibia’s livestock sector and long-term economic future.