While the ban is officially limited to genetic material, Dewald Olivier, CEO of RMIS told Farmer’s Weekly, the consequences are far-reaching.
“South African stud breeders, who form an integral part of the red meat value chain, are now unable to supply superior genetics to clients in Namibia. This disrupts commercial relationships, results in financial losses, and may ultimately impact both countries’ genetic progress and herd productivity over time,” said Olivier.
He added that Namibian farmers were also expected to feel the strain. “Namibian breeders are being denied access to critical genetic resources required to enhance the productivity and efficiency of their herds, especially in a climate where resilience and performance are more important than ever,” Olivier said.
Namibia cites disease risk amid limited communication
According to Olivier, the ban appears to be motivated by Namibia’s efforts to safeguard its foot-and-mouth disease (FMD)-free status, following outbreaks of the disease in parts of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province.
However, Olivier mentioned that the industry has not received detailed communication from Namibian authorities about the urgency or rationale behind the decision.
“We understand Namibia’s need to protect its FMD-free status, but we believe this should be balanced with transparent dialogue and recognition of the existing safeguards in place for genetic exports,” he said.
South Africa’s Response to FMD
Dr Mpho Maja, director of animal health at South Africa’s Department of Agriculture told Farmer’s Weekly that robust containment measures are in effect in response to the recent FMD outbreaks.
“In March 2025, we expanded the Disease Management Area (DMA) in KwaZulu-Natal and implemented a revised movement protocol. This includes strict biosecurity measures, quarantine of affected zones, regulated farm access, intensified vaccination, and clinical and serological surveillance,” said Maja.
She added that government was also working closely with Namibia to address their concerns.
“The South African Veterinary Authority will provide Namibia with the information they have requested, including the locations of semen and embryo collection centres approved for export, and relevant FMD certification,” Maja said.
Cross-border engagement underway
Maja added that there is a scientific basis for South Africa’s export protocols. “The current veterinary health certificate for export of semen and embryos to Namibia provides all the guarantees in line with—and in some cases exceeding—the international World Organisation for Animal Health’s Terrestrial Animal Health Code guidelines,” she says.
Olivier further added that the National Genetic Export Advisory Committee (NGEAC), which includes livestock industry stakeholders, is actively engaged in addressing the issue.
“The NGEAC is working closely with the Department of Agriculture to support efforts to restore confidence and ensure continuity of trade. Since the closure of the National Animal Health Forum, the NGEAC has been incorporated under RMIS and is administered by the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO). This transition strengthens our response capacity,” said Olivier.
Olivier said RMIS is committed to regional co-operation and transparent communication to safeguard the sustainability of Southern Africa’s red meat industries.
“We remain hopeful that through dialogue and scientific engagement, we can find a resolution that protects both animal health and the livelihoods dependent on cross-border trade.”
