Namibia’s four major farmers’ unions have launched a multi-million-dollar unified leadership campaign titled: “One Nation. One Herd. One Responsibility”, aimed at bolstering collective efforts to prevent the entry and spread of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).

The campaign, launched yesterday, has already secured more than N$12 million in pledges and material support and has set N$50 million as its primary target.

FMD is a highly contagious animal ailment that poses a significant threat to the country’s livestock sector.

The disease affects a wide range of cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and even certain game species, making it a concern for both commercial and communal farmers.

Although Namibia remains free of foot-and-mouth disease, recent outbreaks in SADC serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness.

Livestock production is a cornerstone of Namibia’s economy, supporting thousands of farming families, creating employment opportunities along the value chain, contributing to national food security, and earning vital export income.

Namibia’s livestock industry is valued at an estimated N$15 billion and serves as a foundational pillar of the national economy.

Driven by a national herd of roughly 2.5 million to 2.9 million cattle, alongside millions of sheep and goats, the sector contributes 3.5% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and sustains the livelihoods of approximately 70% of the Namibian population.

Vigilance 

An outbreak of FMD within Namibia could have devastating consequences, including trade disruptions, loss of export markets, economic hardship for rural communities, and increased pressure on farmers.

In response to these risks, the Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU), the Namibia National Farmers Union (NNFU), the Namibia Emerging Commercial Farmers Union (NECFU), and the Previously Disadvantaged Namibian Farmers Union (PDNFU) have united to emphasise that preventing FMD is a shared responsibility.

Their collective message underscores that foot-and-mouth disease does not discriminate based on geographic location, ethnicity, or farming system. It can affect any livestock operation and, if not contained, could threaten the entire sector.

The leadership of these unions urges farmers nationwide to remain vigilant. Key measures include strengthening biosecurity protocols on farms, adhering strictly to animal movement controls and health regulations, and promptly reporting any suspicious symptoms to veterinary authorities. Every farmer’s proactive participation is critical to safeguarding Namibia’s national herd.

The campaign’s central message is that safeguarding animal health and preventing FMD outbreaks is a collective effort that transcends individual organisations or government agencies.

It is a national responsibility that requires cooperation, vigilance, and swift action from all stakeholders.

By working together, maintaining high biosecurity standards, and supporting disease prevention initiatives, the unions underscored that Namibia could protect its livestock industry, preserve access to export markets, and secure a prosperous future for all farmers and rural communities.

-ohembapu@nepc.com.na