Govt moves to contain outbreak of animal disease in Namwala

Government has assured livestock farmers and stakeholders that it is making every effort to contain the incursion of the Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) situation in Namwala District and prevent further spread of the disease.

Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Permanent Secretary, Dr. Max Choombe, also warned against illegal movement of animals from affected areas to non-affected areas across the District, Province and country at large.

Speaking in Choma when he paid a courtesy call on Southern Province Permanent Secretary, Choombe described the practice as a major threat to the livestock sector and farmers’ livelihoods.

Choombe said he was in the Province to join a team of veterinary experts carrying out on-the-spot investigations into the animal disease situation in Namwala District.

“The government has reinforced the veterinary team already deployed in the affected area to intensify disease surveillance, sampling, and monitoring of clinical signs among cattle,” he stated.

He stated that the temporary suspension of cattle bulking centre operations was among the immediate interventions undertaken as investigations continue.

Choombe appealed to communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious animal movements, noting that collective efforts are required to safeguard the regional and national cattle population.

Meanwhile, Southern Province Permanent Secretary, Dr. Namani Monze, pledged the Provincial Administration’s full support in containing the animal disease situation in Namwala District.

“The livestock sector remains a key driver of Southern Province’s economy and aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision of promoting regional economic growth through agriculture and livestock development,” Monze said.

He expressed confidence that through coordinated efforts by government, traditional leaders, farmers, and other stakeholders, the disease would be contained, thereby protecting the region’s livestock population and beef export agenda.

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