Illegal immigrants fuel spread of animal and crop diseases

Mango on sale.PIC:TSELE TSEBETSAME
Mango on sale.PIC:TSELE TSEBETSAME

FRANCISTOWN: The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) has raised concerns that illegal immigrants crossing into Botswana through ungazzetted points fuel the spread of animal and crop diseases.

The director of crop production, Galeitsiwe Ramokapane told Mmegi on the sidelines of a workshop on the management of fruit fly in Botswana at Tati River Lodge recently, that the influx of illegal immigrants from Zimbabwe especially is a course for concern.

This situation in the North East District (NED) has worsened with the numbers of illegal immigrants linked with the rising cross border crime.

Editor's Comment
Stakeholders must step up veggie supply

The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...

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