06 Jul 2026

Botswana’s efforts to expand beef exports into the lucrative Middle East market have received a significant boost following the successful accreditation and listing of the Maun Abattoir for exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Acting Ambassador of Botswana to Kuwait, with accreditation to Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, Mr Amangwe Madisakwana, said the development marked a major milestone in Botswana's strategy to diversify its beef export markets.

He said the accreditation would unlock new opportunities for cattle farmers in Ngamiland while strengthening Botswana's position as a supplier of premium, organic beef to high-value international markets.

Mr Madisakwana said the Maun Abattoir had successfully met the UAE's stringent inspection requirements, including compliance with halal slaughter procedures and internationally recognised food safety standards, paving the way for exports to Gulf markets where demand for high-quality beef continue to grow.

He noted that, beyond the UAE, the accreditation could facilitate access to other member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including the State of Qatar, which accredited Botswana's beef exports in August 2025.

"The accreditation of the Maun Abattoir represents a major milestone for Botswana's beef industry. It will provide farmers in Ngamiland with access to premium markets, improve returns for producers and contribute to economic growth through increased exports," he said.

Mr Madisakwana said the Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) had been actively pursuing market diversification beyond its traditional European destinations, identifying the UAE and the wider Gulf region as strategic markets for Botswana's hormone-free, grass-fed beef.

He said opening the UAE market to beef processed at the Maun Abattoir was expected to stimulate demand for cattle from the Ngamiland region, where communal farmers had long sought access to premium export markets.

The development, he said, was also expected to encourage increased livestock production, support agricultural exports and contribute to the country's economic diversification agenda.

Mr Madisakwana further expressed confidence that the accreditation would enhance Botswana's reputation as a reliable supplier of premium-quality beef while strengthening trade and investment ties with Middle Eastern markets, ultimately contributing to the country's gross domestic product (GDP).

He also acknowledged the continued threat posed by foot-and-mouth disease in Ngamiland, largely due to the proximity of wildlife, but commended government for its efforts to contain the disease.

"It is now up to the people of Maun to seize this opportunity and ensure they make the most of the market access that is within reach," said Mr Madisakwana. ENDS