Zambia has activated emergency containment measures, closing its market to animals and animal-derived goods arriving from South Africa after a fast-moving outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Authorities say the move is intended to shield domestic herds from exposure and prevent economic disruption within the agricultural sector.
The directive, released by the Zambian Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, nullifies every standing authorization that previously allowed livestock imports tied to South African suppliers.
Blanket restrictions on animals and by-products
The precautionary policy reaches far beyond live cattle. It also targets goats, sheep and other susceptible species, along with feed products, untreated skins, hides and dairy commodities that could pose sanitary risks. Even overland passage of animals originating in South Africa has been suspended, cutting off transit corridors that might facilitate viral transmission.
Officials have described the step as defensive rather than punitive, emphasizing that periodic reassessment will determine whether the restrictions remain in force.
South Africa responds to escalating outbreak
The containment decision follows a formal emergency declaration by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who categorized the FMD surge as a national disaster. Infections have now been identified in every province, triggering quarantine zones and tighter surveillance across affected farming regions.
Government agencies have assembled a coordinated response unit made up of veterinarians, agricultural specialists and industry representatives to oversee containment and report on progress.
Mass immunization and export setbacks
To curb further spread, South Africa has initiated an extensive vaccination program that aims to inoculate roughly 14 million cattle within a year. The plan requires around 28 million doses, sourced from international partners including Botswana, Türkiye and Argentina, alongside expanded output from Onderstepoort Biological Products.
The repercussions have already extended to overseas markets. Shipments of beef to China have contracted significantly after import controls were introduced, compounding financial strain on exporters.
For Zambia, the border clampdown represents a calculated safeguard. By acting swiftly, authorities aim to preserve herd health, stabilize rural livelihoods and minimize the broader economic fallout that often accompanies transboundary livestock diseases.
