Zambia bans livestock imports from SA

By BUUMBA CHIMBULU

GOVERNMENT has suspended all livestock imports from South Africa following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in that country.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, through the Department of Veterinary Services, said the decision is a precautionary measure aimed at protecting the country’s livestock sector from the highly contagious disease.
Director of Veterinary Services Dr Charles Maseka announced that the suspension covers the importation of all cloven-hoofed animals from South Africa, as well as livestock feeds, trophies, skins, hides and hooves.
The government has also halted the issuance of permits for the transit of live cloven-hoofed animals from South Africa through Zambia.
In addition, permits for the importation of cloven-hoofed animal products, including dairy products, had been suspended unless strict mitigation measures are implemented in line with international animal health standards.
“All previously issued permits have been revoked with immediate effect,” Dr Maseka said.
He urged farmers, traders and other stakeholders to comply with the new measures, stressing that the restrictions would remain under review and would be adjusted depending on the progression of the FMD outbreak in South Africa.
The government said it remained committed to safeguarding animal health, food security and the livelihoods of farmers across the country.