Meatco faces financial strain as foot-and-mouth disease halts beef exports 

Meatco says it is facing severe sustainability choices and mounting financial pressure following the suspension of international beef exports on 23 September due to the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. With approximately 85% of Meatco's earnings historically tied to international exports, local sales are proving insufficient to replace the lost revenue. As a result, Meatco has suspended slaughter operations while grappling with a monthly wage bill of roughly 15 million Namibian dollars for its nearly 800 employees nationwide. Interim CEO, Albertus Aochamub and the board stress that while no final decisions have been made, every effort is being explored to preserve Meatco as a going concern, protect as many jobs as possible, and restore sustainable operations. Spokesperson Undamuje Hambira.