The Foot-and-Mouth Disease outbreak devastating South Africa’s cattle industry is reportedly approaching Botswana’s borders
BONGANI MALUNGA
The Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak that severely affected South Africa’s cattle industry is now reportedly edging closer to Botswana’s borders, raising alarm among veterinary and agricultural officials. The outbreak in South Africa led to the culling of thousands of infected and at-risk animals, causing significant disruptions in meat supply and driving up beef prices across local markets.
Exports of beef and related products were also heavily restricted, leading to substantial financial losses for farmers and the broader agricultural sector. With the disease creeping toward Botswana, authorities are urging heightened surveillance, strict quarantine measures and increased biosecurity at border posts to prevent a similar economic and agricultural crisis.
THREAT TO LOCAL MARKET
According to the Botswana National Beef Producers Union (BNBPU), the Department of Veterinary Services has warned that the development poses a threat to the local livestock sector. Local farmers have been urged to notify relevant authorities about sick animals, illegal livestock movement and warned against using unauthorized points of entry or exit when travelling in and out of Botswana.
RAPID MOVEMENT
“What began as an inland outbreak in South Africa has now reached alarming proximity to our borders with confirmed cases reported just 40 kilometres from Botswana. This progression of the disease clearly demonstrates the disease’s rapid movement toward our territory,” BNBPU said in a statement last Friday.
STRICT EU MARKET
The European Union (EU), Botswana’s trading partner, has strict regulations on importing beef from countries with FMD outbreaks. Even a single confirmed case can trigger an immediate ban on beef exports from affected zones or the entire country. Botswana’s status as an FMD-free country with or without vaccination is a key requirement for EU trade, an outbreak would jeopardize this status and regaining it can take months to years.
CATASTROPHIC CONSEQUENCES
“An outbreak within our borders would have catastrophic consequences. Botswana beef would immediately lose its international market access and premium value. Local cattle prices would plummet, devastating our economy and the livelihoods of countless Batswana who depend on the livestock sector,” BNBPU explained.