Botswana is increasing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccinations to protect its cattle industry, with veterinary authorities warning that inadequate control efforts in neighbouring Zimbabwe and South Africa could undermine containment measures.
Director of Veterinary Services Dr Kobedi Segale said Botswana was extending vaccination to cattle in some areas where no infections had been reported, amid fears that livestock crossing borders could reintroduce the virus.
He said Botswana’s regional partners had agreed to coordinate disease-control efforts but expressed concern over what he described as limited implementation in neighbouring countries.
Segale singled out Zimbabwe, which he said was expected to have completed a second vaccination round but had yet to do so. Rising FMD cases in South Africa have also prompted Botswana to strengthen its response.
Authorities have resolved to vaccinate cattle every four to six weeks as the regional disease situation evolves.
Despite the concerns, Botswana has reported progress in containing outbreaks. Segale said no new cases had been recorded since September 12 in the containment zone covering Gamalate, Ga Ngwaketsi, Borolong, parts of Kgalagadi and parts of Moshupa.
In Kgatleng, veterinary officials have contained the disease in the area where it was initially detected, with no further cases reported there. Segale also said farmers were increasingly bringing their cattle forward for vaccination.
The government is planning further vaccination rounds. The final round in Borolong was scheduled for October 20, while a second vaccination for Kgatleng was due before the end of October. A third campaign was also planned for Kgatleng.
FMD outbreaks can disrupt cattle movement, slaughtering and marketing, while threatening access to export markets. For Botswana, where beef production supports rural livelihoods and export earnings, maintaining animal-health controls is critical.
The expanded campaign reflects concerns that national measures may be weakened by cross-border livestock movements. Its success will depend on completing planned vaccinations, continued surveillance and cooperation with neighbouring countries.