World - Africa
Updated: September 27, 2023

Namibia: Authorities Ban Poultry Imports From South Africa Due To Bird Flu

By Rasheed Olajide Awoniyi
September 27, 2023
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Following the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the neighbouring country, Namibia has halted imports of live poultry, birds, and poultry products from South Africa.

The suspension is in effect until further notice, according to a statement issued by the agriculture ministry on Wednesday.

South Africa is dealing with a major bird flu outbreak that, according to poultry manufacturer Quantum Foods (QFHJ.J), has killed almost 2 million chickens.

Astral Foods (ARLJ.J), another South African poultry manufacturer, estimated the overall cost of the epidemic to be at 220 million rand ($11.5 million).

Namibia eats approximately 2,500 tonnes of chicken each month, with imports primarily from South Africa.