By Mike Visser | April 2025
Namibia has reimposed a ban on the importation of bovine semen and embryos from South Africa, effective 8 April 2025, citing disease control measures. This decision has drawn concern from stakeholders within the Southern African red meat industry, who fear the move could severely disrupt trade, genetic progress, and the broader value chain between the two countries.
The Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) was among the first to express concern, stating that the ban—though officially restricted to genetic materials—has significant ripple effects. According to RMIS CEO Dewald Olivier, the restriction has left South African stud breeders unable to supply their Namibian clients with superior genetics, halting critical commercial exchanges.
“This disrupts commercial relationships, results in financial losses, and may ultimately impact both countries’ genetic progress and herd productivity over time,” Olivier warned.
Namibian breeders, too, are expected to bear the brunt. Olivier noted that the restriction could hinder productivity and efficiency improvements, especially vital as breeders face growing climate pressures demanding resilient and high-performing herds.
Disease Concerns at the Centre of the Ban
Namibia has attributed the decision to ongoing efforts to maintain its foot-and-mouth disease (FMD)-free status, following outbreaks reported in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. While the concern for animal health is understood, RMIS has flagged the lack of detailed communication from Namibian authorities as a major concern.
“We understand Namibia’s need to protect its FMD-free status, but this must be balanced with transparent dialogue and recognition of the robust safeguards already in place,” Olivier said.
South Africa Responds with Strong Biosecurity Measures
In response to the FMD outbreaks, Dr Mpho Maja, Director of Animal Health at South Africa’s Department of Agriculture, confirmed that expanded containment protocols were rolled out in March 2025.
“We expanded the Disease Management Area (DMA) in KwaZulu-Natal, applying strict quarantine, revised movement protocols, vaccination, and intensive surveillance,” said Maja.
She also confirmed that cross-border collaboration is ongoing, with South Africa preparing to share veterinary documentation and certifications for semen and embryo export centres in compliance with international standards.
International Standards & Regional Dialogue
Dr Maja emphasized that South Africa’s export procedures align with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) standards, offering guarantees for disease-free genetic material.
Meanwhile, RMIS and the National Genetic Export Advisory Committee (NGEAC)—now operating under the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO)—are actively engaging stakeholders and authorities in both countries.
“The NGEAC, now housed within RMIS, strengthens our capacity to respond effectively,” Olivier said.
Path Forward: Seeking Resolution Through Dialogue
The red meat industry in both nations is calling for collaborative resolution. With livelihoods, genetic progress, and long-standing trade partnerships at stake, the RMIS stresses the need for science-driven decisions and open communication.
“We remain hopeful that through constructive engagement, we can protect both animal health and the livelihoods built on regional co-operation,” Olivier concluded.
This is a dynamically generated comment by Kwame Mensah.