Africa-Press – Botswana. The ongoing shortage of livestock ear tags in Botswana is posing a severe threat to the Botswana Meat Commission’s (BMC) ability to export beef to various markets. While the BMC asserts that they currently have sufficient stock to meet external demand, concerns arise about the potential long-term impact if the ear tag shortage persists.
According to BMC spokesperson Shadi Linchwe, the commission has already set aside the necessary requirements to continue beef exports. However, she acknowledges that the shortage is affecting BMC’s livestock procurement, leading to a reduced number of cattle being received in December. The shortage primarily impacts feedlot operators, who acquire weaners from farmers. With farmers unable to tag their animals due to the lingering ear tag shortage, the supply chain has been disrupted for approximately seven months.
Despite the challenges, Linchwe expresses confidence that the situation will be resolved soon, emphasising that they are closely monitoring developments. The BMC, facing financial struggles, plays a crucial role in Botswana’s economy, and any prolonged disruption could have cascading effects.
Farmers, particularly in the Ngamiland region, are feeling the brunt of the crisis. Frank Mafela, Chairman of the Ngamiland Joint Farmers Association, highlights the lack of communication regarding the availability of ear tags, preventing farmers from selling their livestock.
Rumors suggest that a court battle may be contributing to the delay in ear tag availability. Farmers, desperate to sell livestock due to the persisting drought, find themselves in a precarious situation as they await resolution. The uncertainty surrounding the availability of ear tags has left farmers in financial distress, grappling with the aftermath of devastating fires that razed farms and depleted grazing land.
Tebogo Direng, Secretary General of the Sandveld Farmers Association, echoes the frustration, pointing out the government’s silence on the matter despite promises of timely ear tag availability. In addition to hindering sales, the unavailability of ear tags exposes animals to theft.
The controversy surrounding the replacement of the reticular bolus with an electronic ear tag in the Livestock Identification Trace-back System (LITS) adds complexity to the situation. While the shift aims for better traceability, the current shortage underscores the need for effective implementation and management to prevent disruptions in Botswana’s vital beef exports sector.
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