A collective responsibility to end FMD spread

The Monitor Editor | Wednesday February 18, 2026 06:00

As cases continue to threaten herds and rural livelihoods, one simple but critical action can make a powerful difference: strictly adhering to FMD regulations, including refraining from slaughtering cloven-hoofed animals.

Cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, are highly susceptible to FMD. Slaughter, especially during outbreaks or restricted periods, significantly increases the risk of spreading the virus through contaminated meat, equipment, clothing, vehicles, and waste. What may seem like an isolated act can trigger widespread consequences for farmers, markets, food security, and national trade.

FMD outbreaks lead to devastating economic losses. Farmers may lose entire herds. Communities face movement bans whilst export markets close overnight. Recovery takes months, sometimes years. These are not abstract risks; they are realities experienced in regions where biosecurity measures were not strictly followed.

Compliance is not merely a legal obligation; it is a civic duty. Authorities establish FMD control rules to protect everyone: farmers, consumers, and the broader economy. By respecting restrictions on slaughter and animal movement, we reduce transmission risks and help contain potential outbreaks before they spiral out of control. It is disappointing that whilst measures have been imposed by the government to contain FMD, illegal slaughter of livestock continues to pose a challenge in some parts of the country. Elsewhere in the paper, we carry a story about the Serowe jurisdiction registering at least one or two cases every week involving people who defy the ban by slaughtering their animals. The latest incident is said to have occurred on Saturday in Moiyabana, where a man was found slaughtering a goat in his yard.

This is disturbing, especially when government is investing P97 million to fight this disease. This is money that could be used for other pressing matters, but because FMD is a serious issue of concern, government had no choice but to do the necessary. This is why every person must then do their part to adhere to the regulations to save the beef industry. We have been informed that the emergence of FMD could hamper an emerging turnaround at the Botswana Meat Commission, which Finance Minister Ndaba Gaolathe said was beginning to bear fruit.

Now is the time for vigilance and cooperation. If you keep or handle cloven-hoofed animals, follow veterinary guidance. Report suspected cases immediately. Avoid slaughter at all. Encourage neighbours and community members to do the same. It is a collective duty; your duty, my duty, our duty!

Disease control depends on collective action. Protecting our livestock means protecting our livelihoods, food systems, and future. Further, the restriction was not a mere public announcement; it was a call to action for public adherence and collective mindfulness in a crisis. Let us stand together and act responsibly to stop the spread of FMD.