Unattended cattle spotted near Otjiwarongo plots despite municipal warning

Concerned members of the public have raised concerns over unattended cattle roaming in Otjiwarongo, with one person reporting approximately 80 animals in three separate groups near plots, the Cenored substation and Kaap Agri.

The person said attempts to seek assistance from the municipality, police and Directorate of Veterinary Services on Sunday did not result in immediate intervention.

On 28 September 2026, the Municipality of Otjiwarongo issued a public notice prohibiting animals from roaming, grazing or remaining unattended within town boundaries. It warned that livestock could pose road safety risks and announced impoundment charges of N$367.60 per animal per day.

The notice followed Namibia’s confirmation of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in //Kharas Region on 23 September, prompting nationwide livestock movement restrictions. The disease is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.

UPDATE: Phillipus Josef