22 Apr 2013

The Department of Veterinary Services informs farmers and members of the public that it has suspended the slaughter of cattle for export to European Union (EU) market for animals from veterinary disease control zones of IVa, in Boteti sub-district, and six parts of the Central and North East districts with immediate effect.

A news release from the department, says the movement of cloven hoofed animals is not allowed out of these zones, except for direct slaughter for other markets, until further notice.

It says Francistown abattoir will continue slaughtering cattle for other markets other than EU from all zones that use it, including those from Zones IVa and VI.

The release states that this action comes as a result of outcomes expressed at the recent food and veterinary office of the EU Commission audit missions to Botswana from March 3-11.

The purpose of these missions was to evaluate the animal health control systems in place, in particular relation to controls on Foot and Mouth Disease.

It further states that the commission also evaluated the operations over the production of fresh bovine meat destined for export to the EU, as well as certification procedures.

The release says the department has reviewed holding farm registration requirements and urges farmers who had not registered their farms to apply.  This will facilitate direct access to markets. ENDS