Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) poses the single greatest risk to Namibia’s agricultural sector, warns Roelie Venter, executive manager of the Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU). Speaking to Agri Monitor, Venter outlined the potential devastation an outbreak could have on the country’s economy, livestock industry, and rural communities.





Namibia is currently the only FMD-free country in Africa, a status that underpins the viability of its export-driven livestock sector. “The moment FMD breaks out, all exports of livestock will immediately stop,” Venter said. “The entire livestock value chain - from feed suppliers and banks to abattoirs and auctions - ceases to function. Farmers will have livestock on the land but no cash flow, causing a ripple effect across t he rural economy.”





The recent FMD outbreaks in South Africa, particularly outside the Northern Cape, heighten Namibia’s risk. “South Africa has been dealing with this disease for years, but they can consume a large portion of their own products. Namibia consumes only about 30% of its production domestically. We rely heavily on exports to stay afloat,” Venter explained.





While the threat is severe, Venter commended Namibia’s Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) and the Livestock and Livestock Products Board for stringent measures at entry points. “All possible measures are being implemented at the borders, which is where the risk is highest,” he said.





Venter also highlighted the crucial role of the public in preventing FMD’s spread. The disease can be transmitted through livestock, vehicles, and even people, as the virus can survive on clothing, shoes, and in the air for several days. He urged the public to adhere strictly to biosecurity regulations, especially during the festive season, and to avoid bringing meat or other livestock products across the border.





Collaboration between the NAU, other farmers’ unions, and the private sector is also underway. Plans include an FMD support fund and a dedicated office at the NAU to assist DVS and the LLPB with prevention and contingency planning.





“Reporting a suspected case is heroic,” Venter emphasized. “If not reported, the virus could spread uncontrollably with disastrous effects.”





Venter explains that if FMD were to enter Namibia, it could spread extremely rapidly. “According to veterinarians in South Africa, only about 10% of infected cattle show visible signs, meaning 90% could carry the virus unknowingly,” he explained. “Our national herd has no resistance because we do not inoculate against FMD, so the disease could move quickly through auctions, farms, and transport routes. One unreported case could trigger widespread infection, making early detection and immediate reporting absolutely critical to protect the livestock sector.”





Venter concluded with a message of vigilance and unity: Namibians must work together to protect the country’s livestock sector, which forms the backbone of rural economies and national exports, from the threat of FMD.





Watch the full interview on Tuesday, 23 December at 20:30 via the Agri Monitor Facebook-page.