Africa-Press – Botswana. The outbreak of avian influenza in Satau, in the Chobe District, has led to an immediate suspension of all exports of birds and poultry.
This was announced during the annual 51st Ghanzi Show held under the theme: Sowing Seeds of Innovation for Agricultural Transformation.
In his address, acting Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Dr Edwin Dikoloti, emphasised the severity of Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu.
This highly contagious disease poses a significant threat not only to the poultry sector and farmers’ livelihoods but also to wild bird populations and even mammals, including marine species and livestock like dairy cattle.
Dr Dikoloti underscored that bird flu was a zoonotic disease, meaning it has the potential to transfer from birds to humans.
He warned that certain strains of avian influenza could infect humans, leading to health issues that range from mild respiratory symptoms to severe illnesses and potentially death.
The minister characterised the Avian Influenza outbreak as a detrimental setback for Botswana’s agricultural development goals.
He highlighted the poultry industry, alongside sectors like small stock, aquaculture, fisheries, and beekeeping, as national priorities essential for promoting self-sufficiency and stimulating economic growth.
He referred to these industries as ‘low-hanging fruit’ due to their potential for quick advancement and significant contribution to food security.
In accordance with international obligations, Dr Dikoloti confirmed that neighboring countries and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) had been officially notified about the outbreak.
He announced the implementation of a mandatory movement standstill across the country, which would remain in effect until authorities could confirm that the outbreak was localised.
The acting minister urged farmers and the public to remain vigilant, encouraging them to report any suspicious cases of bird flu. Symptoms to watch for include sudden deaths among wild or domestic birds and clinical signs such as swollen heads and faces, blue discoloration of combs and wattles, lethargy, loss of appetite, coughing, and diarrhea.
Dr Dikoloti reassured citizens that his ministry would closely monitor the situation and actively implement disease control measures. Updates and guidelines will be disseminated through available media channels.
Additionally, he encouraged farmers to organise themselves into associations, highlighting the benefits of collective advocacy for improved market access, better pricing, and addressing challenges such as climate change and rising production costs.
He reaffirmed the importance of these unions in the government’s agricultural revolution, stating that collaboration could lead to initiatives that enhanced the sustainability and profitability of the agricultural sector.
To further support the agricultural industry, Dr Dikoloti outlined the government’s consideration of outsourcing specific services to the private sector.
This includes agricultural extension services, disease control, market access support, and quality assurance programs.
The acting minister cited the successful strategies employed in advanced countries like Australia as a model that could be adapted to benefit Botswana’s livestock industry and associated sectors. Furthermore, he emphasised the significant human capital available in the agriculture sector, noting the expertise of professionals such as lawyers, accountants, engineers, and animal health specialists, many of whom have made substantial investments in the field.Dr Dikoloti concluded his remarks by stressing the need for a unified vision and commitment to effective implementation, as the government undertakes a thorough review of legislation, policies, and programs to align with national priorities, including economic inclusion and citizen empowerment.
He noted that these initiatives would be outcome-oriented and designed to tackle emerging challenges such as climate change, rangeland degradation, the One Health approach, and the overall enhancement of the agricultural value chain.
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