The workshop followed a recent visit by President Ian Khama to Maun at which he committed to find a solution to FMD. The chairperson of the Nhabe Agricultural Management Association, Senwelo Modisaemang pleaded with government to take appropriate action as early as possible to eliminate FMD in Botswana.He however, accused the government of double standards in fighting the disease in the district.He argued that unlike other people in the country, tourists in the Okavango Delta are excluded from dipping their shoes in treated water and other related FMD control measures when travelling between infected and uninfected zones.
He further said the veterinary check-point in Setatunga settlement is of no use, saying government is wasting money deploying officers there.For his part, chairman of the Haina Veld Farmers Association, Phillip Wright differed with other farmers who charged that the buffalo fence is ineffective in separating wild animals from domestic ones.He argued that the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) and relevant stakeholders are not taking care of the fence, especially in areas which passes through the river's waters.He called for serious public education on FMD similar to the HIV/AIDS drive.For his part, a Ghanzi Farmers Association representative urged harsh penalties against farmers who do not take care of their livestock, especially those who do not vaccinate them. He cried that such elements defeat the war against FMD.Ngami Member of Parliament, Taolo Habano said of approximately three million cattle in Ngamiland, 9 - 12 percent are not well taken care of by owners. He further advised communal farmers to embark on commercial farming.
