SADC countries are showing political will aimed at driving towards a unified cross-border strategy to eradicate foot-and-mouth disease.    

Giving an update on the regional efforts in Gaborone recently, Lands and Agriculture Minister Edwin Dikoloti said SADC countries are advancing a collective approach.

He said Botswana and South Africa recently adopted a joint 2026-2028 action plan to strengthen diagnostic capacity, coordinate cross-border vaccinations in key regions and establish the Transboundary Animal Disease Plan.

Furthermore, Botswana is working hand in glove with Namibia, Lesotho, Zambia and Zimbabwe, as testified by the recent binational commissions between the landlocked country and these neighbouring countries.

The Botswana Vaccine Institute is strengthening regional partnerships by helping with vaccine supply, coordinating safety measures across borders, and creating plans to manage animal diseases that affect livestock and international trade.