MMADIKGAKA CAMP STRENGTHENS FIGHT AGAINST FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE AND CROSS-BORDER CRIME

Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr. Ketlhalefile F.C. Motshegwa, highlighted the important role of Bogosi as leaders of communities. He noted that the establishment of Mmadikgaka Camp demonstrates how traditional leadership and community initiatives can support government efforts. He added that bringing such developments closer to rural communities helps address poverty, unemployment, and challenges such as livestock theft, which continue to affect farmers who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods.

Mmadikgaka Camp, located near the Zimbabwean border, near Robelela village has become an important operational base in Mmadinare’s fight against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and cross-border crime. The camp’s history was explained to date back when border control measures, including the erection of veterinary fences, were introduced to manage livestock diseases and protect the country’s cattle industry.

When the threat of Foot and Mouth Disease resurfaced in the region, local leadership and communities once again came together to respond to the challenge. Under the leadership of Kgosi Mooketsi who is also coordinator of Mophato, the Mmadikgaka Camp was requested and yesterday handed over by the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture (MoLA) to community. The facility is now used by Mophato, a community-based group engaged by the Bobirwa District Council working with the Botswana Police Service to help combat both livestock diseases and cross-border criminal activities.

Currently, Mophato’s operations have expanded significantly in the area. Their numbers have increased from about 100 members to 418 personnel who are actively working to contain Foot and Mouth Disease in the district. The teams operate across 18 camps situated along the border, with the Tuli area identified as a major hotspot for disease outbreaks. Collaboration with Zimbabwean authorities was said to have been strengthened, with eight Mophato units operating on the Zimbabwean side of the border. 

Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Mr. Edwin Dikoloti, applauded the swift and coordinated response in combating the disease. He emphasized the importance of monitoring cattle and ensuring they remain within designated areas to prevent further spread. He noted that outbreaks such as FMD can be considered natural disasters, especially during times of economic hardship, as they threaten the livelihoods of farmers and the broader rural economy.