Controversial Livestock Feed Supplement Withdrawn
A company based in Otjiwarongo has withdrawn a controversial livestock feed supplement made from sheep’s wool, according to recent reports. The product, named ‘Organic Karakul Fertiliser’, was initially promoted as a fertiliser but later appeared as an animal feed supplement. This development has raised concerns among agricultural authorities and industry experts.
The withdrawal came after a report highlighted the product’s advertisement in Namibia, prompting the Namibia Agricultural Union to take notice. The union is now investigating the potential use of this substance in animal feed, despite no confirmed incidents being reported so far.
Producer’s Response
Johan Theron, the producer of the fertiliser, defended the product, stating that it is an organic fertiliser containing no hormones. He also mentioned that he has temporarily discontinued its use for livestock while conducting further research. Theron emphasized that professional tests are being carried out by a qualified individual in Namibia, and the results will determine the next steps.
He informed the agricultural union about the withdrawal and the ongoing research. Theron committed to sharing the findings with the union and the media once the results are available.
Industry Reactions
Rina Hough, the commodities analyst for livestock at the union, acknowledged the concerns raised by recent allegations. She noted that the Livestock Producers’ Organisation (LPO) is currently investigating the matter. Hough stressed that the LPO strongly opposes the use of any unregistered or unapproved substances in animal feed.
The Meat Corporation of Namibia (Meatco) has not received any confirmed reports of the product’s use. Acting Chief Executive Albertus Aochamub stated that there is no verifiable evidence suggesting that approved cattle producers or feedlot operators are using the product. However, he called for regulatory authorities to be informed about the media reports.
Regulatory and Legal Considerations
Under their contractual obligations, Meatco requires all producers to declare inputs used in production and notify the corporation of any novel inputs. No such formal declarations have been received for this product. While targeted sampling has not yet occurred, the corporation’s veterinary inspection and residue-monitoring programme includes routine testing for regulated veterinary drugs and known residues.
John Mupangwa, a lecturer at the University of Namibia, clarified that ‘Organic Karakul Fertiliser’ is not registered as an animal feed but rather as a fertiliser. He explained that all legal animal feeds are registered by the agriculture ministry, and farmers can access the list of approved feeds. Mupangwa recommended that farmers use registered feed products, which do not pose issues when exporting their products.
He also highlighted the importance of investigating unregistered feeds to assess their impact on exports. Mupangwa urged the custodians of Namibian feed laws to take action against illegal feeds.
Ongoing Investigations
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has not responded to inquiries regarding the matter. Meanwhile, the Namibian continues to utilize AI tools to enhance the quality, accuracy, and efficiency of its reporting while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.