Agriculture Series to focus on FMD and farmers’ livelihoods
The impact of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) on livestock farmers, agricultural businesses and rural livelihoods will be the focus of the 2026 Bank Windhoek Agriculture Series in Windhoek on 30 October.
Held under the theme “Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Safeguarding Herds and Sustainable Livelihoods”, the event will bring together agricultural experts and industry stakeholders to discuss practical measures to contain the disease and limit its economic impact.
The event will take place at the Mercure Hotel from 08:30, with invited guests attending in person and the public able to follow the discussions via livestream on Bank Windhoek’s social media platforms.
The discussion follows the confirmation of FMD in the Karasburg State Veterinary District in the ||Kharas Region on 23 September. By 13 October, 131 animals across 18 farms had tested positive, according to an update from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform. At that stage, the outbreak remained confined to the district.
Surveillance, vaccination and livestock movement controls were continuing as authorities worked to contain the disease and prevent further spread.
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats and pigs, as well as certain wildlife. Although it does not pose a public health risk, outbreaks can disrupt livestock production and trade, threaten jobs and reduce household incomes.
The effects extend beyond farms to meat processors, transporters, retailers and rural communities, placing the livelihoods of farmers and farmworkers at risk.
The annual Agriculture Series was launched in 2018 to bring farmers, researchers, policymakers, experts and industry leaders together to discuss challenges facing Namibia’s agricultural sector.
Bank Windhoek executive officer for Retail Banking Services Leon Koch said the current outbreak required coordinated action informed by practical solutions. “Agriculture sustains livelihoods, strengthens food security and contributes significantly to Namibia’s economy. The current FMD outbreak requires informed, coordinated and practical action.”
He said the series aimed to help farmers and businesses across the agricultural value chain understand the risks, improve preparedness and protect livestock and livelihoods.
The programme will examine disease prevention and control, including farm-level biosecurity, compliance with livestock movement restrictions, surveillance and early reporting. Participants will also discuss how farmers, veterinary authorities, policymakers, local government, industry partners and financial institutions can work together to protect livestock and support the sector’s recovery.
Koch said the bank’s support reflected its recognition of agriculture as a cornerstone of rural development and economic resilience.
