09 Sep 2014

Permanent secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Micus Chimbombi has warned farmers allegedly involved in the illegal movement of cattle and trading to desist from such acts.

Official opening the BOCODOL farmers Foot and Mouth disease (FMD) resolutions meeting in Maun on September 3, Dr Chimbombi said since the allegations were being treated seriously investigations were on going. 

Some farmers in the Ngamiland were allegedly involved in illegal movement of cattle from other parts of Ngamiland to the Hainaveldt where Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) free cattle were sold to Zimbabwe.

Dr Chimbombi sternly warned the perpetrators to desist from such acts, adding that the ministry treats such reports with utmost importance since it could lead to an international crisis if the people were to sell FMD infected cattles to neighbouring Zimbabwe.

He said they were still in talks with Zimbabwe to buy cattle from the other parts of Ngamiland region where there has not been FMD outbreak.

Dr Chimbobi added that FMD that has been caught in the second zone of Shakawe this year was under control.

He also said talks were on going with Angola to secure a market for cattle from the Ngamiland area. 

The permanent secretary encouraged the Ngamiland farmers to form one association for their voice to be heard instead of numerous associations.

He noted that as one body, the association could have a long way in being equal partners with government and contributing to policy making.

Dr Chimbombi said associations could have a role in determining cattle prizes as well as appreciating the existing prizes.

The farmers raised issues of concern ranging from maintenance of buffalo cordon fence which they said was impossible due to unrelenting wild animals such as elephants. ENDS