NAMIBIA — In response to the ongoing highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak in South Africa, Namibia has taken the precautionary measure of suspending imports of live poultry, birds, and poultry products from its neighboring country.
The suspension, announced by Namibia’s Ministry of Agriculture, is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
South Africa has been grappling with a significant bird flu outbreak, with reports indicating that approximately two million chickens have succumbed to the disease.
Poultry producers, including Quantum Foods and Astral Foods, have reported substantial losses associated with the outbreak, amounting to around R22 million.
Namibia, which relies heavily on imports from South Africa, particularly for chicken products, consumes an estimated 2,500 tons of chicken every month.
The suspension of imports from South Africa is expected to have notable implications for Namibia’s poultry industry and its consumers.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza is a contagious viral disease that poses a severe threat to poultry populations. The decision to halt imports from South Africa reflects Namibia’s commitment to safeguarding its own poultry industry and preventing the introduction of the disease into its territory.
Namibia’s Ministry of Agriculture has also advised the public and stakeholders within the poultry sector to closely monitor the situation and adhere to biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of avian influenza within the country.
The suspension of poultry imports underscored the importance of vigilance and precautionary measures in safeguarding the poultry industry and ensuring food security in Namibia.
Authorities in both countries are expected to work together to contain the outbreak in South Africa and mitigate the impact on the region’s poultry sector.
As the situation continues to develop, Namibia will closely assess the status of the avian influenza outbreak in South Africa and make informed decisions regarding the resumption of poultry imports in due course.
Meanwhile, the Namibian public and poultry industry stakeholders are encouraged to cooperate with the relevant authorities to help contain the spread of the disease and minimize its economic impact.
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