Maseru, Apr.13 – The Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, Thabo Mofosi, has expressed appreciation for the presence of representatives from the World Organisation for Animal Health in Lesotho as the country intensifies efforts to curb the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease.
Speaking during a meeting held in Maseru on Monday, Mr. Mofosi said the gathering brought together WOAH representatives, livestock farmers’ associations and veterinary doctors to provide an update on the FMD situation and to discuss possible measures to facilitate the safe sale and purchase of wool and mohair.
He noted that the meeting comes at a critical time, following the declaration of FMD as a state of national disaster, underscoring the government’s commitment to mobilising financial resources to combat the disease.
Mr. Mofosi further expressed optimism that WOAH representatives would guide Lesotho on effective disease management strategies, including maintaining safe livestock markets and trade amid the outbreak.
Meanwhile, the FMD outbreak was first reported on February 18 after cattle exhibiting clinical signs consistent with the disease were identified at a cattle post in Mahlasela in the Botha-Bothe District. A total of 17 cattle were sampled, with laboratory results confirming that six tested positives for FMD antibodies.
The World Organisation for Animal Health has partnered with the Southern African Development Community to address FMD in Southern Africa, focusing on regional vaccination strategies, movement control and risk-based management at the wildlife-livestock interface.
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