Namibian Ministry Plans Campaign to Disable Idle Stock Brands
The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform in Namibia has expressed concern over the large number of registered stock brands that are no longer in use and outdated livestock-related information. To address this issue, the ministry has announced plans to undertake an awareness campaign for farmers on the Namibia Livestock Identification and Traceability System (Namlits) and stock brands.
According to a statement from the executive director of the ministry, Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata, the campaign will be conducted by officials from the Directorate of Veterinary Services in collaboration with the Meat Board of Namibia. The campaign is scheduled to run from July 17th to October 31st.
The main objective of the campaign is to raise awareness and educate farmers on the appropriate use of cattle ear tags, stock brands, as well as provide guidance on how to register on Namlits online. As part of the initiative, registered stock brands that have not been in use for two or more years will be deactivated in accordance with the Stock Brands Act.
To assist livestock farmers in updating their stock brands, ear tags, and livestock-related information on Namlits, dedicated stations will be set up in each region. These stations will be staffed by officials from the Meat Board of Namibia and veterinary services. The aim is to engage with livestock farmers and regional authorities throughout the country.
Nghituwamata added that a program outlining the visits to different regions will be released soon. The campaign is expected to promote responsible stock brand management and encourage farmers to keep their records up to date. By deactivating idle stock brands, the ministry hopes to streamline the system and ensure accurate and reliable information for livestock identification and traceability.
The Namibia Livestock Identification and Traceability System is an essential tool for facilitating the control and monitoring of livestock movements. It helps in preventing the spread of diseases, livestock theft, and illegal activities related to livestock.
This campaign reflects the ministry’s commitment to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of livestock management in Namibia. It is hoped that by reaching out to farmers and raising awareness about the importance of accurate stock brand information, the campaign will contribute to a more streamlined and transparent system.
Livestock farming is a crucial sector for Namibia’s economy, and maintaining accurate livestock data is essential for the effective management and planning of the industry. By deactivating idle stock brands and encouraging farmers to update their information on Namlits, the ministry is taking a proactive step toward ensuring the sector’s sustainability and growth.
Farmers are urged to take advantage of the campaign to update their stock brands, ear tags, and relevant livestock information. The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, along with the Meat Board of Namibia and the Directorate of Veterinary Services, are dedicated to providing support and assistance to farmers throughout the process.
By working together, the ministry and farmers can strengthen Namibia’s livestock industry and ensure its continued success in the years to come. The campaign is an opportunity for farmers to embrace technological advancements and contribute to the overall growth and development of the sector.
For more information on the campaign and updates regarding the visits to different regions, farmers are encouraged to reach out to the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform. The dedicated stations set up across the country will provide guidance and assistance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for farmers.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform’s commitment to improving livestock management and traceability underscores Namibia’s dedication to sustainable agriculture and responsible farming practices. By deactivating idle stock brands and updating livestock-related information, the ministry is taking a significant step toward building a modern and efficient livestock industry.
