Zaamwani visits Karasburg to assess FMD response

Staff Writer

Agriculture Minister Inge Zaamwani visited the Karasburg Veterinary District on Friday and Saturday to assess Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) control operations, inspect frontline preparedness and engage with affected farmers.

Zaamwani commended veterinary teams working around the clock at roadblocks to inspect and disinfect vehicles, saying: “I am glad I went on site. I am happy with what I saw.”

She called for additional support for frontline teams and stronger enforcement at night to ensure that all vehicles and travellers comply with control measures.

The ministry also confirmed that the construction of the veterinary cordon fence along high-risk areas of the Orange River has commenced and is expected to be completed within four months.

The ministry further said that the work on the containment-zone fence is expected to begin this week, subject to the delivery of materials and consultations with affected farmers.

Most vaccination teams are said to have arrived, with the remaining teams expected on Sunday, 11 October.

Vaccination is expected to begin once schedules have been agreed upon by relevant stakeholders.

The ministry has urged livestock owners and communities along the Noordoewer, Grünau, Warmbad, Karasburg and Keetmanshoop corridor to observe animal-movement restrictions, cooperate with veterinary officials and immediately report suspected FMD cases.

Photo: MAFWLR

#WindhoekObserver