Human Activity Blamed for Botswana's Latest Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak

Gaborone, Botswana — A government minister says human activity likely caused a new Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak at a key livestock facility. Acting Minister of Lands and Agriculture Dr Edwin Dikoloti identified the source as the Ramatlabama Artificial Insemination Training Centre. This centre is vital for improving cattle genetics in the region. FMD is a severe viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals like cattle and sheep. It causes fever and blisters. The disease spreads easily through direct contact and contaminated materials. The suspected "human activity" means the virus was probably carried by people or equipment moving into the disease-control zone. This highlights a major challenge in containing outbreaks. Authorities have not specified the exact actions that led to the breach. The incident raises concerns about biosecurity protocols at high-risk agricultural facilities.