The Zambian government has decided to close its border to livestock from South Africa due to an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. This decision, jointly made by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and the acting head of the veterinary services, is part of a swift biosecurity measure.
This suspension aims to protect the national livestock industry against an epidemic that could become devastating.
It extends to livestock feed, hides, skins and cloven-hoofed animals.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa declared the foot-and-mouth disease crisis a national catastrophe in a speech last Thursday. It is the worst outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease the country has seen in years.
A plan has been launched in South Africa to vaccinate 14 million cattle over the next 12 months.
