Botswana on alert after disease outbreak reported in Zimbabwe

January 21, 2026

Botswana has swiftly imposed restrictions on the importation of cloven-hoofed animals and related products from Zimbabwe following reports of a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in Mangwe district, Matabeleland South. The affected area lies near Botswana’s Tutume, North-East, and Bobirwa regions, prompting fears of cross-border transmission of the highly contagious livestock disease.

The announcement came on Monday from Kobedi Segale, Botswana’s acting director of Veterinary Services, who explained that the measures are preventive to safeguard the national herd. FMD is known to spread rapidly through direct contact between animals or via contaminated products, making early containment essential, particularly in border regions where livestock often graze near one another.

Under the new rules, the movement of cloven-hoofed animals is prohibited in and out of zones 3b, 3c (Maitengwe), 6b, and 7, except when animals are being transported directly for slaughter. Livestock from these zones are ineligible for export or slaughter for export, ensuring that the outbreak does not impact broader trade.

Botswana on alert after disease outbreak reported in Zimbabwe

Farmers in affected and border areas have been urged to maintain high vigilance and adhere strictly to FMD prevention measures. Recommended steps include limiting livestock movement, kraaling animals at night, and ensuring all cattle are properly branded and tagged. Residents have also been advised to report any suspected FMD symptoms, including lameness, excessive drooling, and sores on the mouth or hooves.

Authorities further highlighted the importance of monitoring illegal cross-border movements of animals, meat, or milk products from Zimbabwe, asking local communities to assist in maintaining cordon fences and keep livestock away from border zones. Officials stressed that community cooperation is critical in preventing the spread of the disease and protecting livelihoods that depend on cattle farming in both countries.

The Botswana government continues to monitor the situation closely, coordinating with local and regional authorities to ensure rapid response if the disease spreads, while aiming to safeguard both public health and the livestock sector.