18/04/13
The Department of Veterinary Services wishes to inform the farming community and members of the public that it has suspended the slaughter of cattle for export to European Union market of animals from veterinary disease control zones 4a, in Boteti sub-district, and 6 (parts of Central and North East Districts) with immediate effect.
The Department of Veterinary Services wishes to inform the farming community and members of the public that it has suspended the slaughter of cattle for export to European Union market of animals from veterinary disease control zones 4a, in Boteti sub-district, and 6 (parts of Central and North East Districts) with immediate effect. Movement of cloven hoofed animals is not allowed out of these zones, except for direct slaughter for other markets, until further notice.
Francistown BMC abattoir will continue slaughtering cattle for other markets other than European Union (EU) from all the zones that slaughter at it, including from zones 4a and 6. This action comes as a result of outcomes expressed by the recent Food and Veterinary Office (FVO) of the European Commission (EU) audit missions to Botswana from the 3rd – 11th March 2013. The purpose of these missions were to evaluate the animal health controls systems in place, in particular in relation to controls on foot and mouth disease;. In addition also to evaluate the operations over the production of fresh bovine meat destined for export to the EU, as well as certification procedures.
On another note the Department has reviewed the holding/farm registration requirements and therefore urges those members of the farming community who had not registered their farms to apply. This will facilitate direct access to markets.
For further clarification farmers and the general public may contact the nearest veterinary office.
Thank you.