Otjozondjupa Governor James Uerikua has cautioned that the exportation of livestock on hooves will collapse the already struggling local abattoirs and feedlot throughputs.

Uerikua shared these remarks at the official opening of the Okamatapati Agricultural and Industrial Expo.

He says the export of over 2,500 weaners on hooves to South Africa in 2022 alone is concerning, and some farmers are now seeking alternative markets to get value for their livestock.

"But when we resort back and the government starts to invest strongly in the agriculture sector, primarily the livestock sector, where farmers can be supported in local value addition and market availability, farmers are ready to keep livestock in the country, add value to those livestock, attain the acquired kilogrammes, and slaughter those livestock locally. And in doing so, whatever happens on that side of the border, we will not get that flu because we have cushioned ourselves from that very happening."

Uerikua also expressed the challenges of middlemen, who are reaping more benefits than actual farmers.

The 36th edition of the Okamatapati Agricultural and Industrial Show saw over 252 small livestock on exhibition and 40 cattle paraded for trading and competition.

40 SMEs and several institutions also took part in the expo.