By A Correspondent- The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Climate and Rural Resettlement, Department of Veterinary Services on Friday announced the suspension of importation of live cloven-hoofed animals and related products from South Africa with immediate effect.

This follows that outbreak of foot and mouth disease in the neighbouring country. As a result, importing live cattle, goats, sheep and pigs from South Africa has been banned.

Department of Veterinary Services director, Dr Josphat Nyika said in the statement:

In line with provisions of the Animal Health Act, CAP 19:01, the Department of Veterinary Services has suspended the importation of live cloven-hoofed animals (cattle, goats, sheep and pigs) and their products from South Africa with immediate effect until a full report on the outbreak has been availed by the South African Veterinary Authorities.

The suspension of imports from South Africa is a precautionary measure designed to prevent the spread of infection into Zimbabwe through the importation of live animals and animal products.

The Department continues to monitor the situation with a view to normalizing trade with the Republic of South Africa as soon as the outbreak is controlled.

-StateMedia