Namibia’s Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak has spread to the Zambezi Region, with authorities confirming infections among cattle at Kalala Island in the Kabbe Constituency.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform confirmed that 12 samples collected from cattle showing clinical signs of the disease tested positive at the Central Veterinary Laboratory in Windhoek on 7 October 2026.
According to the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS), officials from the Katima Mulilo State Veterinary Office investigated the suspected outbreak on 5 October, identifying 20 cattle displaying symptoms consistent with FMD. Samples were collected and submitted for testing on 6 October.
Following confirmation, the ministry activated the National Foot-and-Mouth Disease Contingency Plan under the Animal Health Act of 2011 and immediately introduced strict control measures to contain the outbreak. The movement of all cloven-hoofed animals and their raw products has been suspended throughout the Zambezi Region, with all previously issued movement permits cancelled.
Authorities have also suspended the marketing and trade of susceptible animals, including auctions, informal markets and other animal-gathering events. Slaughtering cloven-hoofed animals at local abattoirs, informal markets and during social events has been halted. However, slaughter at export abattoirs under Commodity-Based Trade may continue, subject to favourable traceability of cattle currently in quarantine.
Roadblocks are being established at strategic locations to enforce movement restrictions, while emergency vaccination has commenced in the affected area.
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and susceptible wildlife. Symptoms include blisters and sores around the mouth and hooves, excessive salivation, reluctance to move and loss of body condition.
The ministry has urged farmers, livestock owners and other stakeholders to remain vigilant, comply with all control measures and immediately report suspected cases to the nearest State Veterinary Office.
The latest confirmation adds the Zambezi Region to the areas facing FMD containment measures as veterinary authorities intensify surveillance and efforts to prevent further spread. The ministry said further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.
By Rudi Bowe
