Zambian Minister of Fisheries and Livestock Michael Katambo says livestock farmers must comply with the 500% increase in veterinary fees imposed earlier this month.

The minister’s statement comes amidst complaints by farmers over what they’ve described as exorbitant fees.

In accordance with the revised fees, a consultation was now pegged at ZMK50 and a farm visit at ZMK125 per hour. A subsequent hour or part thereof would cost will cost ZMK100.

The Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) has warned that the fee hikes will make livestock farming uncompetitive and increase costs to consumers.

“Government needs to be putting in more incentives to attract people into farming. The latest development is moving in the opposite direction,” says Jervis Zimba, ZNFU president