FMD fight needs all of us

The Monitor Editor | Tuesday June 30, 2026 13:24

Botswana's cattle industry is one of the country's greatest assets. For many families, cattle are a source of income, food, pride, and culture. They pay school fees, build homes, and support livelihoods. Beyond the farm, the beef industry creates jobs and earns the country valuable foreign exchange through exports.

That is why the construction of the new containment fence should not be viewed as just another government project. It is an investment in protecting our economy and the future of thousands of farming families.

The government's approach to involving communities, businesses, and volunteers deserves support. Completing hundreds of kilometres of fencing within a short period requires machinery, transport, and human and financial resources. The government cannot do it alone.

Companies can contribute by providing fuel, tractors, trucks, fencing material, meals for volunteers, or financial assistance. Such contributions are not donations to the government. They are investments in protecting an industry that benefits the entire country.

Communities also have a role to play. Protecting the fence from vandalism, reporting illegal livestock movements, and respecting veterinary restrictions may seem like small actions, but they make a big difference in preventing the spread of disease.

As the season of weddings, family gatherings, and traditional ceremonies approaches, many people will be looking forward to slaughtering cattle and sharing meat with relatives and neighbours. Whilst these customs are an important part of our culture, we must remember that movement restrictions and veterinary regulations are there to protect the national herd, not to inconvenience farmers.

Ignoring movement permits or using illegal routes may satisfy one person today, but it could lead to new disease outbreaks that affect thousands of farmers tomorrow. The consequences would be severe, including more restrictions, loss of export markets and financial hardship for rural communities.

Botswana has overcome animal disease outbreaks before because Batswana worked together. The same spirit of unity, volunteerism, and self-reliance is needed again.

This is the time for every Motswana to ask a simple question: What can I do to help? Whether it is volunteering a few hours, donating resources, supporting those working on the fence, or simply following the rules, every contribution counts.

The fight against FMD is a fight to protect our cattle, our farmers, our economy, and our national heritage.