Namibia’s latest veterinary conditions set out where livestock and meat products may be transported, what documentation is required, and which activities remain prohibited amid the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) response.
The rules distinguish between areas north and south of the Veterinary Cordon Fence (VCF), with additional restrictions applying to the //Kharas and Zambezi regions.
Key restrictions and permissions include:
North of the VCF: Movement of cloven-hoofed animals and their products remains permitted, except in the Zambezi Region, where specific restrictions apply. Eligible animal products and feed may move south of the fence under existing veterinary protocols.
//Kharas Region: Raw meat and animal products from registered facilities outside the region may enter if accompanied by valid supporting documents. Products originating from butcheries, abattoirs, slaughterhouses, informal slaughter slabs and cold storage facilities within the region remain restricted. Meat bought from retailers may be transported for personal consumption if proof of purchase is available. Slaughter south of the VCF: Eligible animals from registered feedlots and quarantine facilities listed on NamLITS may move directly to registered abattoirs under a valid permit, subject to biosecurity measures, traceability checks and negative FMD test results.
Household slaughter: Slaughter for personal or household consumption is permitted, but the resulting meat may not be moved away from the premises. Slaughter on farms or homesteads for commercial sale remains prohibited until further notice.
Raw meat movement: Raw meat from cloven-hoofed animals slaughtered at registered abattoirs south of the VCF may move within areas south of the fence and into the //Kharas Region, subject to applicable veterinary requirements.
Processed products: Commercially cooked and processed meat, biltong, droëwors, pasteurised milk and milk products from registered facilities may be traded countrywide, subject to veterinary protocols. Treated hides and trophies are also permitted under existing requirements.
Imports and exports: Raw meat and other animal products may be imported or transported through Namibia with the required veterinary permits and health documentation. Animals ready for export may be exported, except those in the //Kharas Region, subject to the importing country’s requirements.
Important: These conditions do not mean that all livestock and meat movements are unrestricted. Permits, traceability, health certification and regional restrictions still apply. Livestock owners, traders, transporters and consumers should confirm the applicable requirements with the Directorate of Veterinary Services before moving animals or animal products.
By Rudi Bowe
