A CONSIGNMENT of 3 000 live head of cattle was scheduled to be exported to Mauritius over the weekend.
The Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) confirmed the planned shipment on Friday, saying the sale is a private commercial transaction facilitated by the company as the national ports authority.
“Namport remains committed to facilitating trade in a safe, efficient, and responsible manner, in strict adherence to all regulatory and ethical standards governing port operations,” Namport’s manager of marketing and stakeholder engagement Cliff Shikuambi said.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform also confirmed the export and said the department of veterinary services had been involved in monitoring sanitary and animal health requirements.
“The directorate of veterinary services has fulfilled its role regarding veterinary oversight, ensuring compliance with the importing country’s requirements as well as international animal health standards,” ministry spokesperson Tjirongo Kauaria said on Friday.
However, he also said the transaction is private, and not one of government-to-government relations.
The cattle export is reportedly organised by a seller near Otjiwarongo – Waterberg Agri Trading CC – and will be transported via ship to Mauritius.
The Namibian understands that the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in South Africa led the Mauritian buyer to contact Namibian beef exporters.
Waterberg Agri Trading declined to comment yesterday, but said it would release a press statement later this week.
The livestock carrier ship – Gelbray Express – docked at Walvis Bay yesterday morning, according to international shipping data. Trucks carrying cattle were expected yesterday afternoon.
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