Govt lifts ban on slaughtering of livestock in Lilongwe

The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development has lifted all restrictions it imposed due to the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Lilongwe district.

The lifting of the restrictions is with immediate effect.

The development follows successful disease control measures the ministry employed in the district, coupled with vigilant surveillance, which indicates that there are no further cases detected in the outbreak areas.

Through a statement, the ministry says it has now authorized the resumption of slaughter, and sale of all livestock such as cattle, goats, sheep and pigs.

It adds that following the development, the restriction of livestock and livestock products movement in the affected areas within Lilongwe district have been removed, provided appropriate procedures are followed.

As a precautionary measure, the ministry is further urging livestock farmers to report any suspected cases of the disease to their nearest agriculture offices.