LUSAKA - Zambia has partially lifted its suspension on the importation of cloven-hoofed animals and selected animal products from South Africa after determining that the country's Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) situation has improved.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock announced the decision following a recent veterinary risk assessment, which concluded that imports of certain products can resume under strict veterinary controls.
Director of Veterinary Services Dr. Charles Maseka said imports of eligible products will be considered on a case-by-case basis and only after approval by the Department of Veterinary Services.
Products now eligible for import include cloven-hoofed animals that meet Zambia's veterinary and import requirements, processed dairy products such as Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) milk and its derivatives, as well as heat-treated meat products packed in hermetically sealed containers, including canned meat.
Dr. Maseka said every import application will undergo a comprehensive veterinary risk assessment before an import permit is issued, adding that the measures are designed to safeguard Zambia's livestock industry while facilitating controlled trade.
He urged importers, livestock producers, traders and other stakeholders to consult the Department of Veterinary Services before placing orders to ensure full compliance with Zambia's import regulations.
Dr. Maseka also thanked stakeholders for their cooperation during the suspension and called for continued adherence to animal health and biosecurity measures to minimise the risk of disease transmission.
The suspension was introduced as a precautionary measure following outbreaks of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in South Africa. The disease is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals and can have severe economic consequences for the livestock sector.
Source: ZNBC News) | By: Arnold Tutu