Ivory Coast has announced the lifting of restrictions on the pork industry, allowing pig farming activities to resume in areas previously affected by African Swine Fever (ASF).
The Ministry of Animal Resources and Fisheries confirmed that restrictions imposed following ASF outbreaks have been lifted after thorough epidemiological investigations and comprehensive health checks.
Authorities said the measures taken to contain the disease had proven effective, paving the way for a gradual resumption of activities across all previously affected areas.
The Ministry emphasized that while the situation is under control, continued vigilance is essential. “Although the situation is now under control, vigilance is more important than ever,” officials said.
They warned that ASF remains a highly contagious viral disease with no available treatment or vaccine, highlighting the need for ongoing biosecurity measures.
To prevent a resurgence, the Ministry has maintained strict health policing measures.
These include continuous monitoring of pig farms, markets, and slaughterhouses, as well as tight control over the movement of pigs and related products.
The resumption of pig farming is conditional on strict compliance with regulations. Farmers must obtain prior authorization from the Ministry and adhere to a series of obligations designed to maintain safety and sustainability.
These include officially declaring farming activities, signing and implementing a long-term biosecurity charter, carrying out regular disinfection, and ensuring complete sanitary vacuums within farms.
The Ministry described the lifting of restrictions as a positive step for stakeholders in the industry, allowing the revival of economic activities linked to pig farming.
However, officials stressed that biosecurity and regulatory compliance are critical to securing the sector against future outbreaks.
The decision reflects Ivory Coast’s broader commitment to balancing economic recovery with public and animal health safeguards, ensuring that the pork industry can resume operations in a controlled and sustainable manner.
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