01 Sep 2022

Rampant rustling along the Botswana/Zimbabwe border and frequent Foot and Mouth Disease outbreaks in the area are major issues for discussion during President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi’s state visit.

Speaking in an interview before departing for Zimbabwe yesterday, President Masisi said rustling was of  great concern to the two countries, both of which had made commitments to eradicate it.

“The state visit presents a perfect platform for both heads of state to find lasting solutions to the Botswana/Zimbabwe cross border cattle rustling crisis,” he said.

President Masisi said another topical issue was FMD which had for years caused distress to farmers in both countries.

“The frequent foot and mouth disease outbreaks along the Botswana-Zimbabwe border villages needs to be promptly attended to since they pose a threat to the  two countries  economic  growth,” President Masisi said.

He said as two countries which enjoyed excellent relations, it  was important to respond to any threat to such ties.

President Masisi is expected to officiate at the annual Zimbabwe Agricultural Show today.

The state visit is a reciprocal gesture following Zimbabwe President Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s  own in 2018.

The same year, the two countries signed an agreement establishing a bi-national commission to  promote  and  explore  cooperation  in  a  number  of  areas  such  as  education,  agriculture, defence and security, energy, environment as well as health.  

 President Masisi is expected to return  home tomorrow. Ends