Kenya bans meat from South Africa

Kenya has joined other African nations in the ban against import of South African meat following a deadly listeria outbreak linked to factories in the country.

The ban by the Kenya Public Health department follows similar bans imposed by other African nations such as Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia.

“Reference is made to the outbreak of Listeriosis in South Africa associated with products from Enterprise Food Production Factory and Rainbow Chicken Limited. The products from Enterprise include Bokkie, Renown, Lifestyle and Mieliekip while those from Rainbow products are Polony, Russian and Viennas,” reads the statement signed by the Director of Public Health, Kepha Ombacho.

The department has also recalled any of the aforementioned products already in the market, as well as directed all retail outlets in the country to remove them from their shelves.

“In order to ensure that the health of the public is protected and as a precautionary measure, you are required to stop the importation and sale of these products in market while at the same time recall those that are already on the market,” reads the statement.

Mr. Ombacho has also instructed all companies to bring to the attention of their staff this information and furnish his office with reports of action taken on the matter.

“While pursuing this matter, observance of the legal provisions as stipulated in the Food Drugs and Chemical Substances Act Cap 254 and the Public Health Act Cap 242 Laws of Kenya is necessary,” concludes the statement.