The Namibian Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has announced the establishment of a Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) control area in the ||Kharas region. This decision, which takes effect immediately, is a response to the need to prevent the spread of FMD from neighboring countries and to maintain Namibia's status as an FMD-free nation. The declaration aligns with a notice in the Government Gazette issued on March 17 and is crucial for ensuring the health of the livestock sector and the country's international trade relations.

The designated FMD control area includes a band covering two adjacent farms extending approximately 10 kilometers south of the Mata Mata border post to the Orange River, as well as a similar band north of the Orange River. All communal areas and settlements within this zone are included, expanding from the Orange River towards the Atlantic Ocean. This proactive measure underscores the ministry's commitment to protecting not only the local agricultural community but also the economic interests linked to livestock exports.

By establishing this control area, the ministry aims to mitigate the risk of disease transmission and enhance biosecurity measures. The declaration indicates the government's readiness to respond to potential agricultural threats, which are critical for sustaining livelihoods dependent on livestock farming. Continued awareness and cooperation from local farmers and communities will be essential in ensuring the success of these preventive measures and maintaining Namibia's standing in international agricultural markets.