The foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in the ||Kharas region could lead to increased activity in Namibia’s charcoal industry as farmers face reduced income from livestock, the Charcoal Association of Namibia (Caon) says.
Caon general manager Eck Volkmann says the disruption to livestock farming could create an opportunity for charcoal production as farmers look for alternative sources of income.
“It is highly likely that charcoal will be booming as compensation for reduced farming income from livestock and small stock,” he says.
Volkmann says the outbreak is not an immediate concern for the charcoal industry, but warns that its effects could spread to several sectors of the economy.
“FMD will have many socioeconomic impacts on many sectors,” Volkmann says.
The comments come after the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) confirmed FMD in the Karasburg state veterinary district on 23 September.
The outbreak was detected during routine surveillance on 22 September, when 63 cattle showing clinical signs of the disease were observed.
Volkmann says the potential increase in charcoal production would be linked to the financial pressure created by the livestock restrictions.
Caon has, however, warned charcoal producers, processors and transporters to strengthen biosecurity measures to prevent the disease from spreading between farms.
The association says the DVS restrictions do not currently prohibit the movement of charcoal, wood, woodchips or biochar.
However, it has instructed its members not to transport biomass products on livestock trucks and not to transport livestock on vehicles used for charcoal or biomass.
Vehicles moving from one farm to another are also expected to be cleaned and disinfected, with particular attention given to tyres and undercarriages.
Charcoal workers have been urged to stay away from kraals, livestock handling areas and loading points unless access is essential.
The association further advises producers to keep records of vehicles, drivers, farms of origin, destinations and confirmation that vehicles and equipment have been cleaned and disinfected.
Volkmann says the industry would continue monitoring developments as the veterinary authorities work to contain the outbreak.
