'The threat is real'; LLPBN asks for full cooperation against FMD

The Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia (LLPBN) has called for national vigilance and “full cooperation”, warning that the threat of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) is a looming reality that could cripple the country’s economy if met with complacency.

In response to the current biosecurity landscape, Dr Anja Boshoff-De Witt, Executive for Quality Assurance at the LLPBN, emphasised that while the board is fortifying physical defences, the success of the mission now depends on the actions of every Namibian citizen and livestock producer.

Not just a farming issue

The LLPBN is moving to dispel misconceptions that FMD is a manageable animal health concern. Describing it as a highly contagious viral disease, the board warned that the virus is resilient enough to survive freezing and even pasteurisation.

Crucially, the disease spreads through indirect contact, meaning the virus can hitchhike into Namibia via contaminated vehicle surfaces, tyres, personal footwear and animal products. “The threat is real,” the LLPBN stated. “It is not only the responsibility of the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) to control it, but of every Namibian citizen to play their part.”

Fortifying the frontline

To combat the risk, the LLPBN has launched a large-scale logistics operation centred on Namibia’s points of entry. The board has appointed dedicated staff members at all borders with South Africa and at national airports specifically to conduct vehicle disinfection. In addition, the LLPBN has provided all the necessary equipment and consumables for these functions.

Infrastructure development is also a priority, with the LLPBN facilitating and partially funding the design and construction of permanent vehicle wash and disinfection facilities at Noordoewer and Ariamsvlei. An FMD Emergency Store has also been procured and established, ready to be mobilised to any location at a moment’s notice upon instruction from the Chief Veterinary Officer. On an ongoing basis, the board continues to manage the maintenance and upkeep of the Veterinary Cordon Fence.

Report and contain

Addressing anxiety within the farming community, the LLPBN stressed that early reporting is the only way to limit the impact of a potential outbreak. Farmers are urged to report any suspected case to a state veterinarian without delay and to follow instructions strictly to avoid causing panic.

Producers are further advised to restrict their movements by not visiting farms, auctions or feedlots in South Africa, and by not allowing visitors from such facilities onto their own land.

The LLPBN is currently facilitating stakeholder consultations and investigating alternative markets should the worst occur. The board concluded with a firm plea to the public to provide full cooperation.

“The threat is real. Provide full cooperation at all points of entry or exit to safeguard the industry,” Boshoff-De Witt said.