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Foot-and-Mouth Disease Strikes Zambezi Region
Namibia’s livestock trade faces strict movement and marketing curbs after a Foot-and-Mouth Disease outbreak hits the Zambezi Region, threatening local agricultural commerce and farmer livelihoods.
By: Johanna N Festus
Namibia’s livestock trade in the Zambezi Region has been disrupted following the confirmation of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) at Kalala Island in the Kabe constituency, prompting restrictions on livestock movement, marketing and slaughter as authorities work to contain the outbreak.
According to Veterinary Public Notification No. 17 of 2026, issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform through the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS), veterinary officials identified 20 cattle showing clinical signs of the disease during investigations on 5 Oct. 2026.
Laboratory tests subsequently confirmed FMD in all 12 samples collected from the affected cattle, with the results confirmed on 7 Oct. 2026.
The outbreak poses an economic concern for livestock farmers and businesses that depend on cattle production, trading, transportation and meat processing.
In response, the ministry has activated the National Foot-and-Mouth Disease Contingency Plan under the Animal Health Act of 2011.
According to the ministry, the measures are intended to contain the outbreak, prevent further spread and protect the country’s livestock industry.
The Directorate of Veterinary Services has suspended the movement of all cloven-hoofed animals and their raw products throughout the Zambezi Region until further notice. Livestock marketing and trade, including auctions, informal markets and activities at local abattoirs, have also been suspended.
