Association urges calm over Karan beef foot and mouth

Namibian cattle producers should not panic over the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease at Karan Beef in South Africa. This is according to Jako van Wyk, the chairperson of the Livestock Producers' Organisation (LPO). Although the closure of Karan Beef’s Heidelberg feedlot will certainly have a ripple effect on the meat industry, Van Wyk says the impact on Namibia will likely be limited.“Karan Beef only buys from a limited number of Namibian auction houses, so we hope that the impact on local prices will not be significant,” he says.According to him, farmers must consider the broader perspective and avoid making hasty decisions. “We have good grazing after good rains. Slaughter prices are currently strong. If you can, hold back your calves for a week or two and don’t let buyers exploit this uncertainty for lower prices.”Van Wyk says the crisis in South Africa could even present a positive opportunity for Namibia. “We are a foot-and-mouth disease-free country and we maintain a high level of biosecurity. South African feedlots may start to realise how valuable our status is and that our livestock does not expose their herds to disease.”Although the Heidelberg feedlot is closed — and it is their largest feedlot — Karan Beef’s other satellite feedlot systems are still operational. “They haven’t stopped buying completely. It’s important to understand that the business hasn’t shut down — only one feedlot,” Van Wyk confirmed.The LPO is now working closely with the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) to maintain Namibia’s status as a foot-and-mouth disease-free country. “We recently even consulted with an international animal health expert to strengthen our internal biosecurity. He assured us that Namibia has the best veterinary services in Africa. We must commend our DVS for that,” says Van Wyk.He says Namibian producers should, therefore, not panic but remain vigilant and adjust their planning where necessary. “The market may be uncertain for a few weeks, but we are in a good position to weather this storm.”– jacques@nmh-hub.com.na

Association urges calm over Karan beef foot and mouth

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-19

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Association urges calm over Karan beef foot and mouth

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-19

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