STAFF WRITER
Agribank says they will implement a case by case relief programme for farmers affected by Foot and Mouth disease.
The bank’s Chief Executive Officer , Robert Eiman said the bank is worried about the potential devastating effects of the FMD outbreak on farmers and the sustainability of the bank.
“Agribank recognises that the FMD outbreak and related restrictions have far- reaching implications for the livestock industry, livelihoods and the economy at large, making this a challenging time for both the Bank and its clients,’ he said.
The Bank called on all stakeholders, communities and businesses to work together and comply with the restrictions and measures introduced to help contain the outbreak and restore normal livestock farming and trading conditions.
“The Bank is deeply concerned about the impact that these restrictions may have on its clients. However, the extent of the impact may differ across farming and Agri enterprises operations of our clients. Therefore, any support to be extended to our clients will not follow a one-size-fits-all approach; each request will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, considering the client’s circumstances,’ Eiman said.
Namibia announced the FMB outbreak on 23 September 2026 through then Acting Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Charles Mubita.
The outbreak originated from a commercial farm in the //Kharas Region. The outbreak resulted in the Ministry, through the Directorate of Veterinary Services, implemented precautionary disease-control measures, including restrictions on the movement and marketing of cloven-hoofed animals and animal products to contain the outbreak and protect the livestock industry.
“. The affected clients are welcome to engage the bank on how the FMD outbreak and related restrictions may affect or have affected their operations. The Bank will work with each client to identify appropriate repayment arrangements and support options to protect and preserve the agribusinesses, guided by the policies and procedures,’ Eiman said.
He added that, “Through open and early engagement, we can identify practical solutions that support clients as we navigate this difficult period together with a view to protecting the agriculture sector and safeguarding the Bank’s long-term
Sustainability.”
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