TUYEIMO HAUFIKU

WINDHOEK

The European Union has temporarily suspended imports of fresh meat from Namibia’s previously foot-and-mouth disease-free zone following an outbreak on a commercial farm in the //Kharas Region.

The restrictions cover fresh meat from cattle, sheep and goats, as well as certain farmed and wild hoofed animals and some processed meat products, including biltong and jerk

In a statement issued on Monday, EU ambassador to Namibia Ana Beatriz Martins said the measures follow confirmation of an outbreak in the Karasburg State Veterinary District on 23 September.

Martins said the decision threatens access to an important export market as Namibia works to contain a disease the EU described as highly contagious, with serious consequences for farmers’ livelihoods and the wider economy.

“However, processed meat subjected to the EU’s prescribed treatment to reduce disease risks remains eligible for entry. The EU measure was published in its Official Journal on 5 October, with 23 September set as the cut-off date for the affected products.

Fresh meat consignments certified by Namibian authorities before 23 September may still be admitted during the 90-day period from that date, subject to decisions by border control posts in EU member states,” she said. 

Following confirmation of the outbreak, Namibian authorities notified the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), introduced movement controls and banned exports of cloven-hoofed animals and their products.

Martins said WOAH suspended Namibia’s FMD-free status with effect from 22 September.

She praised the country’s response and said discussions were underway on possible further support.

“Namibia has responded with speed and transparency, and we commend its veterinary services for their professional response,” Martins said.

“We stand ready to continue working with the Namibian Government and its veterinary authorities as they work to contain the outbreak and protect farmers’ livelihoods.”

Martins said the EU was also assessing how it could further assist Namibia.

She described the restrictions as precautionary animal-health measures consistent with international standards. 

The EU said it would continue assessing the outbreak in cooperation with Namibia and review the restrictions when animal-health conditions allow.

Martins stressed that the measures do not change Namibia’s preferential trade access under the EU–SADC Economic Partnership Agreement, but concern the animal-health requirements for the affected products.