Southern Zambia is grappling with a Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak linked to illegal cattle movements from a neighbouring country. The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock’s Principal Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Charles Maseka, confirmed cases in seven districts.

Laboratory investigations traced illegal cattle entry through Imusho and Sinjembela in Sesheke and Sioma Districts. The outbreak was first reported in Liwandamo and Mapopo villages of Sioma District.

Movement restrictions on cloven-hoofed animals and their products have been imposed in affected and neighbouring districts to contain spread.

Dr. Maseka explained the response: “We conducted vaccinations in high risk areas with 35,000 doses. However, illegal movements caused spread, requiring emergency procurement of an additional 135,000 doses from Botswana’s Institute of Vaccine and Disease Laboratory.”

Vaccinations are ongoing in Shangombo, Sioma, and Sesheke.