11 Jun 2024

Botswana is one of the few countries that provide compensation to livestock owners whose animals succumb to diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Launching the livestock restocking initiative in Mowana yesterday, the Assistant Minister of Youth, Gender, Sports, and Culture, Mr Buti Billy, highlighted Botswana’s exemplary response to animal diseases, especially its strategy for combatting FMD, which serves as a beacon of hope in the global battle against this disease.

Mr Billy emphasised that Botswana not only prioritised eradicating FMD but also ensured that farmers affected by the necessary culling received fair and prompt compensation for their losses.

This distinctive approach has positioned Botswana as a frontrunner in disease control, showcasing the power of prioritising people’s welfare even in the face of significant economic challenges.

Mr Billy urged future livestock recipients to value and care for the animals allocated to them.

“Ensure they are securely returned to their kraals overnight, providing them safety from predators and harsh conditions. This responsibility is not just a duty but a privilege, one that I trust you will honour with the utmost respect and diligence,” he said.

In preparation for the exercise, Chairperson of the Mowana Village Development Committee (VDC), Mr Richard Monthe, conveyed in a pre-restocking meeting that proxies would not be tolerated in the ongoing restocking activity in Zone 6 (b) of the North East District.

Mr Monthe stressed that only the full owners of the animals allocated to them could receive them directly; no intermediaries would be permitted.

“The animals must be received directly by the designated recipient. No one will be allowed to receive the animals on behalf of another person,” said Mr Monthe.

 He underscored the importance of accountability and fairness in the process, declaring that recipients must present all necessary documentation to claim the animals.

The requirement for recipients to be physically present during the restocking was prompted by widespread proxy registration concerns. 

Mr Monthe explained that proxy practices, although understood in the context of rural challenges, could compromise the exercise’s integrity.

Moreover, Mr Monthe advised recipients to securely keep essential documents such as National Identity cards, animal brand certificates, zonal branding documentation, and keeper cards, which are crucial for establishing ownership and managing the allocated livestock.

He encouraged farmers to support each other by providing animal feed during periods of drought, fostering solidarity within the community.

Addressing the issue of livestock water scarcity, Kgosi Oagile Mokowe of Mowana emphasised the long-standing need for a community/village dam, which would serve as a vital water source during droughts, supporting the agricultural sector’s growth and sustainability.

The first recipients in Mowana village, Ms Angelinah Sebonge (receiving 10 animals) and Mr. Monthe (receiving 12), expressed gratitude for the restocking initiative. Ends