Botswana's commitment to transparency in reporting disease outbreaks, specifically the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) is commendable.
Addressing a kgotla meeting in Jackalas No.1 on Friday, Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe said transparency would build trust between countries Botswana exported meat to, particularly the European market.
He stressed the importance of Botswana’s openness, which was in contrast with what other countries were doing as some did not disclose disease outbreaks.
Mr Gaolathe, also Minister of Finance, applauded all stakeholders from individual farmers, farmers associations, mephato and government officials for pulling together in an effort to contain the disease.
Due to their commitment and dedication, he said nearly 7 000 cattle were vaccinated in Zone 6B following an outbreak of FMD in Jackalas No.1 on February 2.
This feat, he said was commendable as it was achieved during a two-day vaccination exercise, which started on February 3.
Even though government has allocated P97 million for its FMD national response plan, he stressed the need for community involvement in controlling the FMD spread.
He said the funds were not enough and urged community participation in managing the disease, maintaining fences and patrolling border areas
For his part, Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Dr Edwin Dikokoti stressed the importance of working together and adhering to veterinary protocols, saying they were key to combating the disease.
“Only working together and adhering to the advice by the veterinary department can stop this disease," he said. ENDS