The foot-and-mouth disease restrictions on livestock movement continue to disrupt meat supplies, leaving some butcheries temporarily closed, while others struggle to keep their shelves stocked.

Owners of CN Butchery in Windhoek, Cliffton and Nadia Van Wyk said the disruptions have made it difficult to maintain normal operations amid uncertainty over when supplies will resume.

They highlighted continued uncertainty that threatens their income and the livelihoods of employees.

They urged authorities to provide clarity on the restrictions and possible interventions while ensuring that measures to contain the outbreak protect both animal health and the sustainability of affected businesses.

The shortage has also forced consumers who rely on smaller, conveniently located butcheries to travel further in search of operational butcheries with available stock.