20 Apr 2026

The European Union (EU) has suspended beef imports from Botswana from the larger Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) free zones (zones 4b, 5,8,6a,9, 10, 11, 12 and 13)

 until the zone has regained the FMD free status and the EU requirements have been satisfied.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) also suspended the

FMD free status of the larger FMD free zone, which consists of Zones 3c (Dukwi), 4b,5, 8, 6a, 9,10,11,12 and 13 following the FMD outbreak in Zone 11.

The release further states that the ongoing disease surveillance has detected FMD in three more crushes, Phihetswane, Bethele and Crowsly Park farm.

This is in addition to cases recently reported at Ramatlabama Artificial Insemination Laboratory, Papatlo, Matasalalo, Ramatlabama village crush and Primefast feedlot near near Hildavale.

The press release states that the movement ban of cloven-hoofed livestock and fresh products thereof, as well as the prohibition of slaughter, remains in force in order to contain the outbreak.

“Farmers are urged to avoid illegal or unauthorised movement of livestock out of affected areas, and to herd and kraal their animals at night to reduce the spread of the disease,”it says

The Ministry further states that stakeholders are requested to remain patient and cooperate with veterinary officials conducting disease control activities, including surveillance, vaccination against FMD, searches, and disinfection at checkpoints.

The release advises that members of the public and farmers are also urged to report any suspicious signs of FMD such as lameness and excessive salivation to the nearest Department of Veterinary Services or Botswana Police Service offices. ENDS