Botswana's livestock industry has received a significant boost, and its Ministry of Lands and Agriculture has relaxed the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) controls. 

In Botswana, the beef industry is a cornerstone of the national economy and a vital source for foreign currency.

The Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Kobedi Segale, announced at a press conference in Gaborone that the FMD outbreak in the northeastern part of Botswana has been suppressed.

He said the last cases, believed to be spillovers from the southwestern part of Zimbabwe, were recorded in March.

Dr Segale said movement of cloven-hoofed animals from, into, and within the affected zones for breeding purposes and direct slaughter at registered facilities under a veterinary permit is now allowed.

"Movement of cloven-hoofed animals and their derived fresh products is now allowed from, into and within the affected zones to the rest of the country under a permit and seal. Import and export of cloven-derived products are allowed subject to import and export requirements."

Projections for 2026 showed a potential revenue loss exceeding N$222 million, a significant blow to a sector that has been on a cautious recovery path following previous outbreaks and temporary lifting of bans.

Botswana's beef exports to the European Union typically accounted for about nine thousand tonnes annually, a substantial volume that generated premium prices compared to neighbouring markets like Namibia and South Africa, where export prices are significantly lower.