JUST IN: Govt Bans Importation Of Livestock From South Africa
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Climate and Rural Resettlement, Department of Veterinary Services on Friday announced the suspension of importation of live cloven-hoofed animals and related products from South Africa with immediate effect.
This follows that outbreak of foot and mouth disease in the neighbouring country. As a result, importing live cattle, goats, sheep and pigs from South Africa has been banned.
Department of Veterinary Services director, Dr Josphat Nyika said in the statement:
In line with provisions of the Animal Health Act, CAP 19:01, the Department of Veterinary Services has suspended the importation of live cloven-hoofed animals (cattle, goats, sheep and pigs) and their products from South Africa with immediate effect until a full report on the outbreak has been availed by the South African Veterinary Authorities.
The suspension of imports from South Africa is a precautionary measure designed to prevent the spread of infection into Zimbabwe through the importation of live animals and animal products.
The Department continues to monitor the situation with a view to normalizing trade with the Republic of South Africa as soon as the outbreak is controlled.
