The Namibia Professional Hunting Association (Napha), the Namibia Agricultural Union and other stakeholders have been working with the government throughout the year to prepare for a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak.
Napha president Hannes du Plessis said on Friday this work involves relevant government departments and has helped prepare the country to respond to an outbreak.
Du Plessis said the control measures announced by the directorate of veterinary services followed these preparations.
He urged Napha members to follow the restrictions and any further measures introduced to contain the disease.
“Now is the time to respect these measures and any further directives that may follow,” he said.
Du Plessis also warned members against spreading rumours or trying to find ways around the restrictions.
“Please refrain from spreading rumours, creating unnecessary anxiety within our communities or, most importantly, looking for loopholes in the announced measures,” he said.
He acknowledged that the restrictions could affect businesses and their finances in the short term.
Du Plessis said following the measures is necessary to protect livestock, wildlife and the future of the agriculture and hunting industries.
He also called on farmers and hunting operators to strengthen biosecurity measures on their properties.
Du Plessis urged members to review their existing procedures, make sure workers understand them and remain alert.
“Biosecurity is not simply a precaution for today; it is an ongoing responsibility that protects our own properties as well as those of our neighbours,” he said.
He also urged members to speak to their employees about the outbreak and explain the measures in place to prevent the disease from spreading.
