SHG is aware that people travelling to, from or via the Middle East will be concerned about the ongoing conflict. The situation is changing rapidly. In the first instance you should access the FCDO travel advice website at: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for up-to-date information. Stay in close contact with your airline, if you have travel planned, as schedules and routes may change at short notice.
The wider impact on St Helena will depend on the duration and nature of the conflict and is currently hard to predict. However, we can assure those on island that we secured our next fuel shipment prior to the conflict starting and before an increase in world oil prices. This shipment is due in late March and will fully replenish our supplies.
Due to an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease in South Africa, which is being treated as a national emergency there, we must restrict the importation of cloven-hoofed animals and animal products. This applies where the product originates from, is produced in, or is repackaged in South Africa. There are some exceptions, such as fully cooked items, tinned meats and UHT milk (subject to conditions). Changes will apply to air imports from 10 March and after the March arrival of the MV Karoline for sea freight. A separate press release will provide more details.
Please DO NOT change your buying behaviour as a result of these issues. This adversely affects the supply chain and presents a risk to the most vulnerable in society, who may rely on buying food and fuel in small quantities, when they need it, rather than being able to buy in bulk. Please consider others, as well as yourselves.
As always, the remoteness which makes our island so unique also presents challenges. These are nothing new and we will continue to work collaboratively to see them through. SHG will keep you updated about any significant changes.
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