The fate of the Northern Veterinary Cordon Fence, commonly referred to as the Red Line, will be decided in a high-stakes legal battle set for early next year. 

Professor Job Amupanda, leader of Affirmative Repositioning, will face the government from January 21 to 31, 2025. 

As the applicant, Amupanda is advocating for the complete removal of the Red Line, arguing that it economically, socially, and psychologically disadvantages northern Namibians. He contends that the fence, a relic from the apartheid era, restricts market access for livestock farmers in northern Namibia and perpetuates inequality.

Conversely, the Ministry of Agriculture, under Minister Calle Schlettwein, opposes the removal, claiming it would pose significant economic risks to Namibia. Schlettwein argues that the Red Line is crucial for maintaining the country’s foreign beef export market, especially with European nations, by ensuring that livestock in the southern regions remain disease-free.

While the main case is scheduled for next year, Amupanda's legal battle continues with a significant development in the coming weeks. 

On October 25, 2024, High Court Judge Shafimana Ueitele will deliver a ruling on Amupanda's interlocutory application, in which he seeks a protective costs order. This order would protect Amupanda from incurring substantial legal fees if he loses the main application.

Amupanda, who has been advocating for the removal of the Red Line since 2021, asserts that the government’s stance serves privileged interests at the expense of ordinary Namibians.