The Government of Botswana, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, is making significant progress in finalizing the compensation process for farmers in Zone 6B who lost their cattle due to last year’s outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Butale. More than 1,000 cattle were culled as part of the government’s disease control measures to prevent further spread of the outbreak.
The compensation initiative aims to provide relief to affected farmers whose livelihoods were severely impacted by the loss of their livestock. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all eligible farmers receive fair and timely compensation, with the process now in its final stages.
The outbreak, which was detected in Butale in 2023, prompted swift action from veterinary authorities to contain the disease and protect the national herd. Measures included movement restrictions, intensified surveillance, and the culling of infected and exposed cattle in the affected zone. These efforts were necessary to safeguard Botswana’s livestock industry, which plays a critical role in the country’s economy and exports.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Lands has assured farmers that the compensation process is being handled with transparency and efficiency. It has worked closely with affected farmers to verify claims and ensure that payments are made in accordance with established guidelines. The government has also encouraged farmers to continue adhering to biosecurity measures to prevent future outbreaks and sustain the health of the national herd.
The finalization of the compensation process marks a crucial step in helping affected farmers recover from their losses. Additionally, it reinforces the government’s ongoing efforts to maintain Botswana’s reputation as a producer of high-quality beef, both for domestic consumption and international markets.
