15 Sep 2019

 Government has allowed for export of live cattle for slaughter with immediate effect until March 31 next year.

A press release from the Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food Security says the decision is, however, subject to review.

The release says each farmer would be allowed to export up to a maximum of 30 per cent of their total herd and such dispensation is meant to assist farmers to avert possible loss of cattle due to severe drought.

Application forms for export can be obtained from any office of the animal production department countrywide and upon application for the permit, farmers will need to produce a veterinary import permit from the country of destination and proof of livestock ownership.

The release also says livestock census from the Botswana Animal Information and Traceability System (BAITS), will be used to confirm the number of livestock owned by each farmer.

It further says intermediate conditions for issuance of the permit are also listed and will also be subject to conditions including cancellation by the director of animal production department, a 30-day validity and is independent of the veterinary disease control permit. Conditions also entail that exported or imported goods not accompanied by a health certificate from the exporting or importing country will not be accepted.

Furthermore, it says returns on quantities imported or exported by the permit and original copy of the permit shall be submitted or returned to the issuing office. ENDS