Zebaldt Ngaruka 

The agriculture ministry has launched an awareness campaign for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) at multiple border points across the country.

The aim is to empower farmers and residents to help control the virus in their areas. 

The nationwide campaigns began on 28 July and end today. 

Farmers and residents in various parts of the country, especially those in border towns and villages, have greatly benefitted from this informative initiative. 

This effort is vital to maintaining Namibia’s FMD-free status and protecting livelihoods in the livestock industry.

FMD is a highly contagious virus that affects cloven-hoofed animals and poses a serious threat to livestock. 

The week-long campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of preventing and controlling FMD in Namibia.

The ministry, working with key stakeholders, aims to strengthen national biosecurity measures and safeguard Namibia’s agricultural economy.

When asked about the motivation for the campaign Regina Valombola, the ministry’s spokesperson, said recent FMD outbreaks in the Southern African Development Community region prompted the initiative. 

“It has become imperative to raise awareness among frontline border personnel, including officials from the directorate, relevant agencies, transporters and travellers,” she stated.

Valombola said the workshop was designed to ensure all parties understand the regulations and restrictions related to the movement and importation of animals and commodities, especially during this critical period of increased disease risk.

The campaign teams were divided into two groups, Team A and Team B. 

Team A is responsible for the southern border post and Hosea Kutako International Airport (HKIA), while Team B covers central and eastern border control points as well as HKIA.

The campaign started in Keetmanshoop, where the team met with NamRa and police regional offices.

On 29 July, Team B visited Klein Manasse for an FMD awareness session with border officials and stakeholders. 

On 30 July, Mata-Mata was visited by Team B, and Team A stopped at Oranjemund.

On 1 August, Team A covered the Noordoever border post, and Team B attended the Buitepos border in Omaheke. 

On 2 August, team A planned to visit Vioolsdrift, followed by Ariamsvlei on 3 August. 

Today, the teams will conclude their campaigns at HKIA. 

– zngaruka@yahoo.com