Namibia is tapping two Chinese firms in its project to build a manufacturing plant for foot and mouth disease (FMD) vaccine, the China state-owned news agency Xinhua reported.

According to the news report, Namibian Agriculture Minister John Mutorwa identified the two companies as AFECC and the Jinyu Group.

AFECC is engaged in international project contracting and mineral resources development, among others, while Jinyu Group is involved in research and production of veterinary vaccines, specialising in biopharmaceuticals manufacturing.

Mutorwa said the FMD vaccine plant has been one of his ministry's important projects but that it could not get off the ground for lack of technical partners.

"It is therefore our great pleasure to now engage the AFECC and Jinyu Group to realize, practically, this important national assignment," Mutorwa was quoted as saying.

Namibia last reported an outbreak of the FMD in May. It has managed to contain the outbreak after spending around US$12 million and declaring a state of emergency.

Namibia has some 2 million cattle, which are reportedly prone to FMD.